DUBLIN. NoV 10: Wimbledon defender Kenny Cunningham is hopeful of taking his place in the Republic of Ireland side for Saturday's Euro 2000 play-off first leg with Turkey at Lansdowne Road, reports AFP.

Cunningham suffered a hamstring injury in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Leeds at Sel-hurst Park.

But Republic manager Mick McCarthy is confident the 27-times capped defender will be able to take his place.

"Kenny, although he didn't train today with the squad in Dublin, is much Improved. I am optimistic about his chances because he very much wants to play in this game," said McCarthy.

"Aj. art from the times he was injured he has always been in my teams and of course has captained Ireland on a number of occasions..I've never left him out of the starting line-up.

“But should he miss out I will not be worried about including Phil Babb even though he has not played a first team game for Liverpool-this season."

Leeds defender Ian Harte seems certain, to play having almost fully recovered from a back injury.

Veteran Manchester United full-back Dennis Irwin is expected to link up with the squad on Wednesday after receiving treatment on a ligament injury at Old Trafford.

That is a boost for the Irish boss after the withdrawal of Mark Kennedy. Steve Staunton. Gary Kelly and Matt Holland because of injuries.

Blackburn pair Jason McA-teer and Jeff Kenna, both late call-ups. joined the squad yesterday and Middlesbrough defender Curtis Fleming broke a four-day holiday with his club in Malaga and will arrive in Dublin on Wednesday.

Veteran striker Tony Cas-carino, who plays for French first division .side Nancy, is confident that he has recovered from a knee injury and is scheduled to link up with the squad on Thursday.