Liverpool defender Steve Finnan arrived at the Republic of Ireland base in Dublin yesterday ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Israel.
But his participation at Lansdowne Road and also against the Faroe Islands next week hangs in the balance because of the thigh injury he sustained in the Champions League final.
The fact he arrived in Portmarnock at all is a boost for manager Brian Kerr who has lost Leicester City full back Alan Maybury because of a pelvic injury.
"Alan's injury disimproved [on Monday] and following discussions between the player, his club and our medical team it was accepted that Alan would not be fit for the two upcoming games," Kerr said.
Kerr had already seen his defensive options deteriorate. Richard Dunne and Gary Breen were forced to withdraw recently while Newcastle full back Stephen Carr is suspended for the Israeli game.
Finnan had a scan last Friday and results suggest the injury is not as serious as first feared. He will receive intense treatment from the Irish medical team this week in a bid for full fitness.
Steven Reid could start at right back should Finnan fail to make it. He played there against Celtic last weekend but a smoother switch would see John O'Shea switch flanks. Such a move would then facilitate Ian Harte's return on the left.
Cardiff City striker Alan Lee has been added to the squad. His inclusion allows Gary Doherty move into defence if needed.
Kerr puts his squad through their paces at Malahide United's ground at 10.30am