For a player supposedly nursing a burning sense of injustice, Liam Lawrence has used his World Cup heartbreak as a platform to hand manager Tony Pulis an almighty selection headache.Just days after his dream of participating in South Africa next year was shattered by the Hand of Henry, the Stoke midfielder stepped off the bench to produce an excellent 33-minute cameo appearance.
There was no hint of heartbreak or self-pity from Lawrence as he saved Pulis from the fury of the Britannia Stadium's home support by helping his side to a much needed win over Portsmouth.
And now the Republic of Ireland international will have even more ammunition in his bid to win back his place, after rumours of unrest at becoming a substitute.
Lawrence, 27, was one of the key men in the Republic of Ireland's qualification mission for South Africa and caused France major problems in both legs of their ill-fated World Cup showdown.
But he has not started a game for Stoke since the simpering 2-0 defeat to Manchester United in September and has cut a frustrated figure at the club's training ground.
There have been whispers that Lawrence has confronted his manager after losing his place to Rory Delap. But, following the player's impressive appearance on Sunday, Pulis will surely consider recalling him - with the support of fans also likely to have an effect.
Not many players epitomise Stoke more than Lawrence. He had a point to prove when Stoke were promoted to the Premier League, after a fall-out with then Sunderland manager Roy Keane.
And the Potters' demanding fans love nothing more than a player who makes up for limited ability by displaying unwavering commitment and covers every blade of grass as if it were his last game.
While the omission of Tuncay continues to bewilder supporters, it is difficult to imagine the Turkey international displaying such dedication to the cause as his fellow substitute Lawrence.
Pulis has paid tribute to the fanatical support at home games and they made it known very early - and very vocally - in the game against Pompey that the believed Lawrence should be introduced.
It was a substitution that arguably swung the game. Stoke have missed his creativity, his lung-busting energy and enthusiasm.
Lawrence is better than just an impact player. He has played a major role in Stoke's progression over the last two years and probably deserves better.
With a trip to Blackburn lying in wait this weekend, Lawrence may have done enough to end his frustration by starting at Ewood Park.
