QPR want Ireland

Sunday, 15/01/2012

New QPR boss Mark Hughes could move for Aston Villa midfielder Stephen Ireland.

The Irishman worked with Hughes when they were both at Manchester City and would relish the chance to boost his career under his former boss.

Ireland, 25, was one of the country's brightest prospects whilst at City but joined Villa in 2010 as part of the deal that took James Milner to Eastlands.

But he found himself out of the picture at Villa Park under then boss Gerrard Houllier and last January went on loan to Newcastle for the rest of the season.

His time at St. James' Park was wrecked by injury which put paid to any permanent move to the Magpies.

New boss Alex McLeish has used Ireland ten times this season and he was Man of the Match in yesterday's draw with Everton.

QPR have reacted strongly to deny reports today that they are prepared to sell midfielder Joey Barton.

Suspended for today's trip to former club Newcastle, Barton has retained the captain's armband under new boss Hughes.

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