Crystal Palace's top scorer Clinton Morrison has been named in the Republic of Ireland squad for the World Cup Finals this summer.

The Tooting born hitman, who will turn 23 years old next Tuesday, was named in the 23 man squad to travel to Japan and Korea on Tuesday.

Morrison's 24 goals this season propelled Palace to the verge of the play-offs this season, but as his goals and that of strike partner Dougie Freedman (19 goals) dried up in the closing months, so did Palace's promotion prospects.

But Morrison's international career has got off to a great start with two goals in just five appearances, including one on his debut against Croatia last year, and another against Denmark in his first full start.

In fact two goals for his country, having only made four substitute appearances, and one full start, should make him a favourite to come off the bench should he be needed in the group phase.

He will probably have to compete with Wimbledon's David Connolly for the right provide cover for the first choice pairing of Sunderland's injury-prone veteran Niall Quinn and Leed's striker Robbie Keane.

The Republic kick off their campaign in Group E against Cameroon on June 1, (KO 7.30 BST), before facing Germany on June 5, (KO 12.30 BST), and Saudi Arabia on June 11 (KO 12.30 BST).

They have a great chance to progress to the second round and Morrison is one of just six players playing outside the Premiership, to be named in the squad.

Curtis Fleming, who was hoping to make a late return to the international set up, has missed out due to a groin injury with Mick McCarthy opting for Leed's Gary Kelly and Fulham's Steve Finnan.

Morrison will be delighted not to have suffered the same fate as Palace team mate Jovan Kirovski, who is on injury stand-by for the USA after narrowly missing out on their World Cup squad.

The midfielder, whose Palace contract expires at the end of June, has stalled on a new deal and will want to play in Japan this summer to help secure a new lucrative contract or find a new club.

He faces a month long wait while the US play three world cup warm up games.

Guardian Sport will keep you up to date with Morrison's international fortunes throughout the summer.

May 13, 2002 15:00