EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Lawrence Tynes was a little premature in declaring himself the New York Giants kicker for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Coach Tom Coughlin said Thursday that he has not made up his mind whether Tynes or John Carney will kick.

"This week is like every other recent week," Coughlin said in a statement released by the team. "I am going to let these guys kick all week and I will make a decision at the end of the week."

Tynes, who has been sidelined since training camp with an injured left knee that required arthroscopic surgery, said Wednesday that the coaching staff told him last week that he could replace Carney this week.

"There was a plan in place," Tynes said. "Last week was our target point. It just so happens to be this week."

Coughlin said he appreciated Tynes' desire to play for the first time since early August.

"I haven't decided yet who will kick this week," Coughlin said. "When I do, I will make that announcement."

It is a tough choice.

Tynes made 23 of 27 field-goal attempts last season and kicked the winning field goal in overtime in the NFC title game against Green Bay.

The 44-year-old Carney has made all 12 of his field-goal attempts and all 15 points after touchdown since being signed days before the season opener.

The 30-year-old Tynes said he did not feel like a relief pitcher taking over after the starter left pitching a perfect game.

"I am just going to continue what he has done for us," Tynes said. "I have learned a lot in five weeks with him. It is going to help me with preparation and staying healthy and staying in this league. I am looking forward to doing just as well as he has."

Tynes has been kicking in practice for the past three weeks. He has had some setbacks, mainly nagging muscle aches and some swelling in his knee. He said he is fine.

"I'm very anxious just to get going. It's been a while," Tynes said. "I feel very good about where I am. I just want to keep up doing what John's done for us the previous five games. I'm looking forward to keeping that streak he has going."

Center Shaun O'Hara was back on the field with the team on Thursday. He was hospitalized on Tuesday and Wednesday with a toe infection.