Ireland wants ‘fair crack’ at Villa

AFTER a nightmare first season, Stephen Ireland says he only wants a “fair crack” at proving himself with Aston Villa.

The controversial Cobh man endured a torrid time at Villa under Gerard Houllier last season — having left Manchester City after falling out of favour with Roberto Mancini — and he spent the second half of the season on loan at Newcastle, where injury added to his problems.

He made just two substitute appearances for the Magpies.