'My life was chaotic' - Stephen Ireland says he couldn't afford to go on international duty

The Corkman says he missed out on caps as he struggled in the early part of his career.

POTENTIAL: Stephen Ireland during Ireland's game with Sweden in 2006. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Former Boys in Green international Stephen Ireland says he lost out on caps with his country because he couldn't afford to go on international duty in the early days of his career. 

The former Manchester City and Aston Villa midfielder made six senior appearances for Ireland, scoring four goals during Steve Staunton's reign.