Fit-again Andy Reid is hoping to force his way into the Charlton team this weekend and boost his Republic of Ireland prospects.

The 24-year-old Dubliner has not played for three weeks since injuring a hamstring but is in contention for a place against Arsenal on Saturday.

Be it a starting role or an appearance from the bench, Reid is eager to get time under his belt just days before Ireland's European qualifiers away to Cyprus and at home to the Czech Republic.

Reid missed the 1-0 defeat to Germany because of injury and a loss of form but was recalled to the national squad earlier this week by manager Steve Staunton.

Charlton boss Iain Dowie has, however, stipulated Reid miss the trip to Cyprus on Saturday week and stay with the club in a bid to aid full recovery.

Depending how that goes, Reid will then be made available to Staunton for the Czech Republic game at Lansdowne Road on October 11th.

"I know my team for Arsenal, I have it in my mind already," said Dowie. "Reid is a possibility. . .he might be ready."

"We would love to have Andy Reid back and we will see how we go. If he's available he will strongly come back into contention."

Reid joined Charlton from Tottenham during the summer but, because of injury, has played just over two hours for his new club.