He’ll vie with Damian McKenzie for the No 10 jersey, while fullback Stephen Perofeta is also an option at first five.
Meanwhile, if selected, McAlister would make his debut at hooker, with Asafo Aumua and George Bell the other options to wear No 2.
Aumua deputised for Taylor at Twickenham, and Bell made his test debut this year.
Elsewhere, centre Billy Proctor has also left the squad to return to New Zealand for the birth of his child.
That role in the squad has been filled by Ruben Love, who returns to Robertson’s first-choice squad after making his test debut against Japan. Love linked up with the All Blacks XV against Munster, although Shaun Stevenson started at fullback ahead of him.
Christian Lio-Willie is also still with the All Blacks after injuries meant Ethan Blackadder, Dalton Papali’i and Luke Jacobson did not travel on the northern tour.
After the victory over Japan, Robertson said he was hopeful Blackadder and Papali’i would still be able to join the All Blacks in Europe.
All Blacks v Ireland, Saturday 9.10am
Live commentary on Newstalk ZB, Gold Sport and iHeartRadio. Live match blog at nzherald.co.nz