McAteer missed Brian Kerr's first match in charge

Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr has recalled Sunderland's Jason McAteer to the squad for the crucial European Championship Group 10 clashes with Georgia and Albania.

However, there is no place in the squad for Manchester City's Richard Dunne, Leeds United's Stephen McPhail, Southampton's Rory Delap and Mark Kennedy of Wolves.

Ireland face Georgia in Tblisi on 29 March, and then take on Albania in Tirana four days later.

McAteer has not played for the international team since September when he limped off during Ireland's 4-2 defeat by Russia.

That was the start of his injury problems as he missed Mick McCarthy's final game in charge against Switzerland in October.

Injury also ruled McAteer out of the friendly against Greece in November and Kerr's first game in charge last month when goals from Kevin Kilbane and Clinton Morrison gave Ireland a 2-0 victory over Scotland.

"I saw Jason McAteer play against Fulham three weeks ago and he looked very fit," said Kerr.

Chris Hughton is confident Robbie Keane will be okay Brian Kerr

"It took him a while to get into the game, but he will be fit for the Georgia game and gives us good options.

"We're well covered in all positions which is important for this trip".

Kerr admitted that Wolves player Kennedy had been a little unfortunate to be left out.

"He's playing well and we've watched him a few times but Damien (Duff) and Kevin Kilbane can both play on the left so we're well covered," he said.

"If we lose some of our front players, Mark will come in".

Kerr has been able to call upon Leeds' Gary Kelly, Robbie Keane (Tottenham), Duff (Blackburn), Kenny Cunningham (Birmingham) and Steve Finnan (Fulham) who were all forced to withdraw from the squad in the build-up to last month's game.

"Duff ready"

He is confident that Keane and Duff - who have not played at all in the last month - will be fit.

"Robbie won't play this weekend, but it looks like he will play next week," said Kerr.

"That is just five days before the Georgia game which is not ideal.

"Chris Hughton is keeping me updated on him and Robbie is confident he will be okay.