The 34-year-old attacker comes into the squad after confirmation that first choice full-forward Iarla Tannian has been ruled out for six weeks due to a broken thumb and ruptured ligaments.

Centra Hurling Ambassador Farragher says Kerins will be a huge boost to the squad.

"Alan has been around for years and he knows what it is about. With the club in the All-Ireland final he was probably the stand out player," explained Farragher.

"The last day with his club in the Galway Championship he was probably the top player again.

"The way (Galway manager) John McIntyre sees it is that if you are playing to form you will be picked. It's as simple as that and that is the way it should be."

Galway have suffered a major injury crisis in the last few months, with up to 10 players on the treatment table at one stage.

The inclusion of Kerins in the squad will help to counter the injury problems in the Tribesmen's attack ahead of their Leinster SHC opener against Carlow or Westmeath on Saturday, June 4.

"If Alan wasn't playing well he wouldn't be called in, it is as simple as that.

"A few of the lads have got injured while one or two others have opted out of the panel also, but it is certainly good to see Alan back anyway."

Farragher is one of those trying to return from injury, having torn ligaments in his knee.

"I got injured myself in the Tipperary game during the league and I was missing then as a result for the Waterford match.

"I'm still not back to full training yet. I am just doing a bit on the bike and a bit in the gym.

"Hopefully I will be back in two or three weeks, in time to face either Carlow or Westmeath in the Leinster Championship.

"It just takes time and it is slow to heal. There is nothing you can really do for it, only build it up."