VERA PAUW has confirmed that Denise O'Sullivan will play against Australia tomorrow in their World Cup opener.
Last weekend, Cork native O'Sullivan was rushed to hospital with an injured shin after a bad challenge from a Colombian player. It was confirmed soon after this that there were no breaks or fractures following the injury.
There had been doubts that the NWSL midfielder would make Ireland's opening group game on Thursday, but Vera Pauw has confirmed that O'Sullivan was able to train with the team on Monday and Tuesday with no complications since then.
"We said from the start that we are very open; we have nothing to hide," Pauw told the media. "Denise is fit, and she will play."
"She trained yesterday and half today, and she will play tomorrow."
When pressed further about her condition and if she had fully recovered, the Ireland manager emphatically said, 'yes.'
Ireland's World Cup group contains the likes of co-hosts Australia, Nigeria, and Canad, and with that Ireland's opening game against Australia tomorrow is set to bring a huge crowd of Irish ex-pats along with it.
Last month, FIFA announced that the game, which is due to be played at the 82,500 capacity Stadium Australia in Sydney, was completely sold-out.
Pauw and the team are well aware of the massive Irish support that has turned out and will also turn out to cheer on the Girls in Green this month. It hasn't gone unoticed according to the Ireland manager.
"It's so heartwarming the way the Irish react to us every time," Pauw added.
"It’s not just being there, but the way they are being there that gives us such a boost, and we embrace it. It’s so nice.
"We just gave them a little time, and I’m not sure everyone was happy with that. But it’s so nice to have those moments."
Ireland captain Katie McCabe also explained that having the Irish support behind them is 'special.'
"It was such a special moment because we've seen a lot and heard a lot," said the Ireland captain.
"And obviously, we felt a lot when we were back in Dublin in our pre-camp, but to see it in person when we arrived was a very special feeling.
"For us, it’s amazing to have that moment with our fans, but of course, now it’s full focus on Australia, and they will come out in huge numbers for us tomorrow night."
