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

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 in Rustenburg.

Martin Skrtel is expected to feature for the Slovakians after shaking off an ankle injury he picked up in last week's friendly against Costa Rica.