Ireland may end international exile

MIDFIELDER Stephen Ireland could be moving closer to ending his international retirement as Premier League clubs hover around the want-away Aston Villa star.

The 24-year old has struggled to force his way into Gerard Houllier’s team since joining Villa from Manchester City and was left out of the Villa squad completely last weekend.

Ireland quit the Republic of Ireland national team in 2007 but is now believed to be keen to again be involved to use as a stepping stone to get his Premier League career back on track.