Stephen is committed to Ireland

Stephen Ireland has hit out at critics and especially Don Givens for claiming the young Manchester City midfielder doesn't want to wear the green shirt. Ireland who was ommitted from the squad against Brazil is upset Givens used last weeks press conference to have a go at him. His comments about having to "beg or cajole" any player into playing for his country hit particuarily hard. Stephen Ireland feels it wasn't right and insists he wants to help the Republic side qualify for major tournaments again.

The Cobh man told the Irish Daily Star

"I want to play for my contract and that has never been in doubt in my mind. I have always enjoyed my time playing for Ireland and trying to get us qualified for the big tournaments.

"Pulling on the green jersey is something that is very close to my heart. I want nothing more in my career than to go on and score more goals and perform to the best of my ability to make sure we qualify for tournaments. Ever since I was a kid I have wanted to play for Ireland in big games.

"I was shocked to hear the things Don Givens was saying about me but you can't really do anything about it. I think it was harsh because he knows from his position that I went through a hard time and he has used it to get personal."