New Zealand: Vicelich penciled in for midfield role

New Zealand coach Ricki Herbert could turn to the experience of defender Ivan Vicelich to fill a midfield hole in their World Cup opener.

A shoulder injury to Tim Brown - whose participation in the whole tournament could be in doubt - has created a problem for Herbert for Tuesday's Group F clash against Slovakia in Rustenburg.

That could mean a chance for Auckland City veteran Vicelich, who started his career in central midfield but has lost his starting place in defence to Ipswich's Tommy Smith.

Herbert told the New Zealand Herald: "You are not going to lack experience (with Ivan) and that might be what we need in this game - someone who is calm and patient on the ball.

"He is a strong influence in the team, along with Ryan (Nelsen) at the back.

"We have experience through the middle of the park and around those players there's a lot of energy."