Ireland on the verge of new deal

Manchester City’s Stephen Ireland claims he wants to spend his career with the Eastlands club and is hopeful of signing a new contract in the summer. The 22-year-old has had his best season to date, with 13 goals so far and a nomination for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.

He debuted for City debut in September 2005 after progressing through the club's youth system and boss Mark Hughes is now reportedly prepared to grant his wish by significantly upping the midfielder's wages in a new deal.

Ireland is unlikely to be disappointed by the offer from the richest club in the world and sees himself there for another 10 years at least.

"I want to play here until I am 33 or 34-years-old," he told the Manchester Evening News. "Hopefully I will get a contract sorted out soon, continue to play for the club I love as long as possible."

Hughes has not been shy with his praise of Ireland.

After the Corkman was closely marked by Darren Fletcher in the Manchester derby at the weekend the Welshman said: "He's had an outstanding season and I have congratulated him at every opportunity I get because it is fully deserved.

"At the weekend, I think it was very much a mark of respect that Stephen received the attention that he did. The impact he can have has been recognised by opposition teams, they know that they have to try to lessen the impact that he has. If he is allowed to play then he can hurt teams, and every team is going to recognise that in the future.

"Sunday was a good test for Stephen, he will get more of that and it is still a learning process for him. Away from home teams will be aware of him and will try to stop him".

Hughes admitted there was interest in Ireland last season and expects that to continue this summer.

"There was interest because he was already an outstanding player, but he had not had the sort of season like he has had this year.

“There was never any doubt that he would be a player that would help us this year, but in fairness I have to say that he has surpassed my expectations.

“That is of huge credit to him, but he was never going to be allowed to leave as he was one I felt would have an impact, and that is how it has proved.”