Ireland still ‘important’ for City

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini insists Stephen Ireland is still ‘an important player’ for the Premier League side.

Ireland has made only 15 league starts for City this season and has been linked with a move away from the club.

Manchester United and Everton are among the clubs reportedly interested in the midfielder.

Mancini said: “I have a lot of respect for Stephen Ireland because he is a good player.

“In the week of the Chelsea game he had an injury. But now he has recovered and is ready to play.

“I have a number of options in midfield and Stephen is an important player for us.”

[Source: The Daily Mirror]