Walters believes Hughes best man for tricky Ireland job

Jon Walters reckons Stoke City manager Mark Hughes can bring the best out of Stephen Ireland.

International exile Ireland has joined Stoke on a season-long loan from Aston Villa in a move which many regard as the Cobh man’s last chance to fulfil his promise in England’s top-flight.

“The manager knew him at Manchester City and the best years he’s played have been with Mark Hughes there,” says Walters.