Holland takes armband but craves a different promotion

MATT HOLLAND’S allegiance to Ipswich Town is beyond question, but the man who will captain Ireland against Norway at Lansdowne Road tonight (7.30 ko) admitted yesterday that he wants to play in the Premiership next season.

Holland captained Ireland when they beat Scotland in Brian Kerr's opening match against Scotland in Glasgow and he spoke yesterday of his delight at being invited again to replace the injured Kenny Cunningham in leading the team, this time before the home supporters.

Holland declined the opportunity to leave Ipswich at the start of the season when he was courted by Aston Villa but Ipswich's failure to secure promotion has left him more amenable to a possible move.