Ireland blames Hughes for City slump

(GSM) – Stephen Ireland thinks he’s not to only one to blame for his struggling season. The Manchester City midfielder believes former manager Mark Hughes is guilty of his dip in form this season.

Ireland told the website of the English FA that he was rarely allowed to play in his “best position” under the Welshman and, as such, has struggled to make an impact.

“The last six months under Mark Hughes was very frustrating for me,” Ireland said.

“I was being played out of position. Maybe as a holding midfielder, left wing, right wing. It is not me.

“You have to adjust and think ‘I have to do it’ but if you want the best out of me you have to play me in my best position. Then I can be myself because the chains are off.”

The 23-year-old feels far happier under Hughes’s successor at City, Roberto Mancini, and believes the Italian is making a positive impact at the club.

“The manager is doing different things but he has done a really positive job so far,” said Ireland. “We are still scoring goals but we have not conceded as many and are working hard.”