GOAL hero Goran Vlaovic is standing by for a place in Croatia's starting line up against European champions Denmark at Hillsborough tomorrow.
The 23 year old forward, who is the subject of a transfer tug of war between club Valencia and Italy's Fiorentina, came on as a substitute to score a dramatic solo, winner against Turkey on Tuesday night at Nottingham Forest's City Ground.
It put Croatia top of group D, but the price of their success was injuries to captain Zvonimir Boban and striker Alen Boksic.
Now Vlaovic is in line, to replace new Juventus signing Boksic who, as well as stitches to a cut head, has a foot injury.
Boban's chances of leading the side are also doubtful after he strained medial ligaments in a knee.
Another midfielder Mario Stanic, is also giving concern to team medic Mladen Cepulic, although he said: "I expect Mario to recover in time from a slight thigh strain."
Coach Miroslav Blazevic, is not worried by the possibility of having to make changes be cause, he claims, there is a depth of talent in his squad.
It was not blatantly apparent against the Turks, however, and he admitted: "We created chances but I was not entirely happy at the way we played. It can only get better."
The Danes may have reached the peak of their form already, having produced a disciplined display to hold classy Portugal to a 1-1 opener.
Goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, who kept them in the match, admitted: "It was a good result for us against the very accomplished Portugal team.
"Croatia have a lot of talent as well but we are happy with our team play and morale which is very high."
Midfielder Michael Laudrup of Real Madrid could lift spirits even higher at his 32nd birthday party - even though it must be delayed from today until after the match.
Denmark's fitness doubts revolve around Ipswich defender Claus Thomsen, who has a back muscle problem, and midfielder Henrik Larsen, who has an ankle injury.
It could mean a place in the starting line - up for veteran Kim Vilfort, who scored one of the goals in the 1992 final against Germany, but was only a late substitute for the opening game this time.
