Ireland 'reluctant to return to International football' - reports

Manchester City and Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Ireland is reluctant to join up with his international team-mates at next month’s training camp.

A Guardian newspaper report has suggested that the 21-year-old is contemplating retiring from international football completely.

Ireland was included in new manager Trapattoni’s extended 40-man squad this week - 28 of whom will train in a special training camp in Portugal next month.

It is understood that Man City manager Sven Goran Eriksson wants Trapattoni to visit the player as soon as possible to change his mind.

The controversial midfielder has refused to play under previous Ireland managers Brian Kerr and Steve Staunton in the past.