David Connolly is set to start his first international since April when the Republic of Ireland face Denmark on Wednesday.
The Dutch-based striker will replace Niall Quinn, who misses out with a recurring back problem and the return of Connolly - nine inches smaller than the Sunderland frontman - in partnership with Robbie Keane looks the only viable option for manager Mick McCarthy.
A starting place would complete a remarkable comeback for former Watford striker Connolly, 23, who is back in favour with Dutch giants Feyenoord after 18 months in the wilderness. His dream move to Holland went sour when he was farmed out to small Feyenoord club Excelsior.
Quinn joins Charlton pair Mark Kinsella and Dean Kiely, Tottenham's Stephen Carr and Blackburn's Jason McAteer on the sidelines from the original squad of 22.
That leaves McCarthy will just 16 outfield players, even after late call-ups for Stoke City midfielder Graham Kavanagh and Hibernian goalkeeper Nick Colgan. - PA