Roy Keane last night opened the door to playing a part in new manager Brian Kerr's bid to reach the World Cup finals in Germany.
But Keane has admitted it would not be easy on his former Republic of Ireland teammates if he were to make a dramatic return to international football.
He said: "I don't think it would be as simple as me saying that I would come back to international football. It would be down to Brian Kerr - it's as simple as that really. It would probably be unfair on the players and Brian while it would also create a lot of media frenzy.
"It might upset some of the players so I don't believe that it's as simple as saying that I would be available for selection again."
The 32-year-old left the World Cup preparations in Saipan in 2002 after a bust-up with then boss Mick McCarthy ahead of the tournament. The Corkman felt there was a lack of professionalism in the build up for the games in Japan and South Korea.
The Manchester United skipper said: "I have always said I have missed international football - but then felt it was important to move on. But part of me has always said that I had unfinished business and it will always be that way.
"Obviously Brian is doing things properly now which I felt the previous manager [McCarthy] wasn't doing,"
Keane believes Ireland are in good shape on the evidence of Wednesday night's goalless draw with Brazil in the friendly international in Dublin.
He continued: "I watched the game and we played very well and probably should have won. It was a great team effort although Kevin Kilbane was excellent in midfield, especially when he pushed forward in attack. On another day Robbie Keane and Stephen Carr might have scored. Yes, they did very well."