Soccer: Brown cleared for World Cup

Tim Brown will join the All Whites in South Africa. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Vice-captain Tim Brown is expected to leave tomorrow to join the All Whites for the soccer World Cup in South Africa.

Brown, who underwent surgery in Auckland on his right shoulder after injuring it during a warm-up match against Australia on May 31, told Radio Sport he has been told his recovery was ahead of schedule.

Coach Ricki Herbert has until 24 hours before New Zealand's first World Cup match against Slovakia on Wednesday morning (NZT) to decide whether or not to replace Brown.

He said all the coaching staff and players were looking forward to having Brown back in the camp.

"Tim is a vital member of the squad on and off the field and he has been instrumental in creating our strong team culture.

"He's made a remarkable recovery, and we want to thank the surgeon, Stu Walsh, and all the medical staff involved for their tremendous work over the last few weeks."

Cole Peverley, who joined the squad in Austria as cover for Brown will stay with the team as injury cover until further notice.

- NZPA, NZHERALD STAFF