Ireland gets Mancin'si assurance

Last updated : 23 March 2010 By Ed

Speculation has been rife that Ireland is unsettled at Eastlands having failed to command a regular first team starting place since Mancini took over the managers role at Eastlands.

"I have a lot of respect for Stephen Ireland because he is a good player," said Mancini.

"In the week of the Chelsea game he had an injury. But now he has recovered and is ready to play.

"I have a number of options in midfield and Stephen is an important player for us."