Wolves striker Kevin Doyle has warned France he is in the form of his life thanks to club boss Mick McCarthy’s training regime.

The Republic of Ireland striker prepares to face the French at Croke Park, Dublin tomorrow night for the first leg of the World Cup play-off to reach the finals in South Africa next summer.

Doyle is delighted to have overcome the injury problems that have dogged him, including a hernia operation that restricted his pre-season preparations.

Having produced consistently classy performances for his new club, the £6.5million record signing feels ready to deliver in the biggest game of his career after coming through Wolves’ renowned ‘train as you play’ daily slog.

He said: “My fitness is very good and I feel as fit and sharp as I probably have done in a long time. At Wolves, we train hard and play hard, so it’s really beginning to show.

“I’ve hopefully got through the little run of injuries I’ve had in the last six months and that will be it for a few years.”

Doyle faced France defender William Gallas in the 4-1 defeat by Arsenal and believes the experience of knowing the opposition can only help him and strike partner Robbie Keane.

The Wolves striker added: “They’re strong, fast, quick – everything that most defenders are in the Premier League.

“It’s good to have that experience. It’s not going to be easy, but it’s do-able I think.”