Kevin Kilbane may play on Saturday wearing a protective mask

Kevin Kilbane did not train with the Republic of Ireland squad on Wednesday but remains in the frame for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Georgia.

Kilbane missed the session because he was having a protective mask fitted following the cheekbone fracture that he sustained at the weekend.

Richard Dunne did train on Wednesday after missing Tuesday's session because of a sore throat.

The Republic are facing Georgia at the neutral venue of Mainz in Germany.

The Georgia match will be played at a neutral location due to the recent problems in the country.

The Republic squad are scheduled to train in Dublin on Thursday morning before travelling to Germany in the afternoon.

Following Saturday's game, the Republic squad move onto Montenegro for the second part of their qualification double-header next Wednesday in Pogdorica.

Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has spoken of his delight at Wigan player Kilbane's desire to play despite his injury.

"But what is important is his mentality. With that mentality, I am confident we will go forward," said Trapattoni.

"He will have another check but I am not worried - I am sure he can play."

The Republic are without injured winger Damien Duff.

Kilbane operated at left-back in the recent friendly in Norway.