Megan Campbell backs 'tough nut' Denise O'Sullivan to make Oz opener

Republic of Ireland international Megan Campbell is confident that "tough nut" Denise O'Sullivan will overcome her current injury setback and make it back in time for the Girls in Green's FIFA Women's World Cup against hosts Australia on Thursday.

O'Sullivan's hopes of playing in the country's maiden World Cup appeared to be dealt a blow on Friday when the key midfielder sustained a painful shin injury in a warm-up against Colombia that was subsequently abandoned.

However, scans showed there were no fractures and the Cork native returned to sustained a painful shin injury.

While manager Vera Pauw is holding out "really good hopes" that O'Sullivan will make it back for Thursday's historic showdown with Australia, she still faces a race against time to recover.

But speaking on the RTÉ Soccer Women's World Cup Podcast, Campbell, who missed out on the squad due to injury, expressed her belief that her resilient long-time team-mate will be able to push through the pain barrier.

"Naturally there will be pain probably through her leg where she had the contact but I've known Denise O'Sullivan for years and she's a tough nut," said Campbell, who got in touch with the 29-year-old as soon as she first heard about the injury.

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"I don't think anyone will keep her off that pitch come Thursday night and obviously they have to be wary and say that there's not a certainty about her playing and stuff but if I know Denise O'Sullivan, it will be definite that she will be on the field on Thursday.

"And