50-year-old Kerr was pragmatic about the return of arguably the Republic's greatest ever midfielder to the Republic party. "Roy told me he wants to make himself available and I have picked him the squad. He is available under the same terms as every other player in the squad," he stated.
"Kenny Cunningham will remain as captain. He was captain when I took over as manager and will stay as captain," added Kerr.
The Dubliner was then asked on how Keane's return came about. "Roy has taken a deep interest in the Irish team over the last few months, and I have always said that I have an open mind if players who have retired want to make themselves available again."
"And that goes for any player who has retired," he added, perhaps a comment aimed at retired goalkeeper Dean Kiely. "Roy came to me and told me he wants to make himself available again on the same terms as everybody else."
"I can understand players, who in the past played for Ireland with an unbroken record, having difficulties with it and why some fans have some lingering annoyance at what happened in Japan - but I would hope that we are more mature now," he continued.
"If there are any problems, I would expect them to be sorted out quickly."