The Reading winger is in contention to start his first match for his country after two impressive substitute appearances recently.

Hunt's late arrival in the last two matches against San Marino and Wales has lifted manager Steve Staunton's side at a time when they needed it most.

Ireland now face the Slovaks on the back of a run that has seen them take 10 points from their last four matches, keeping them in the hunt for a top-two qualifying place from Group D.

But given the Republic's precarious position, Hunt claims nothing less than another victory will again suffice.

"We've an awful long way to go," insisted Hunt.

"We've another tough home game on Wednesday and we need another three points to have any chance of qualifying.

"If we don't get them then we might as well forget about it."

Staunton also knows nothing less than victory will suffice as he said: "The table has a psychologically better look about it now.

"But we've played a game more than Slovakia and they are only a point behind us.

"From that perspective they will be thinking if they can beat us in Dublin then we are out of it, so that's what we have to guard against.

"But it's down to ourselves and what we do. We know the Slovaks aren't going to be easy. It's going to be a big test for us.

"We've some tough games left in the group, but this young squad is growing stronger day by day, week by week and month by month.

"The more criticism they get, it's making them stronger, so things are looking well."

Staunton is understandably looking for the perfect finish to their qualifying campaign for this season as Ireland do not play another group game until September.

"As it's our last game for a long time in the group, it would be good to finish with a win and then we can concentrate on the friendlies," added Staunton.

"Hopefully we can get a few more players and gain in experience over in America (against Ecuador and Bolivia in May) and against Denmark (in August) and be a lot stronger for it next season."

At least the Croke Park factor is done with following all the hype last week ahead of the first soccer match of the modern era to be played at the GAA stronghold.

Staunton is hoping that will prove beneficial, adding: "I don't think there were any nerves (against Wales), but it's out of the way now.

"Hopefully we can do what the rugby boys did and improve on our performance.

"It's still new to us all, but we've done the first game and we're looking forward to the next few." Staunton is awaiting on the results of scans for Stephen Ireland and Shay Given that will determine his team selection.

Manchester City midfielder Ireland and Newcastle goalkeeper Given both required precautionary scans yesterday for thigh and knee injuries respectively.

Ireland is confident he will play, while Given should be fit to lead the side in the absence of Robbie Keane who serves a one-game ban.