After rumours of showdown talks with Gerard Houllier were not the first for summer signing Stephen Ireland, there have been a number of clubs become very aroused by the unmissable bald man (not really my type). Despite a pretty dismal start to his Villa career, sides are not being put off from an interest in the 24-year-old who is undoubtedly a class act at his best, which sadly for Villa is some way off. It appears to me as though the manager is unwilling to try the midfielder for two games in a row let alone a run in the first team which I believe is a shame. The player’s wages are high and with Randy Lerner looking to tighten the purse-strings somewhat on the wage bill, it could be nice knowing you Mr Ireland! A loan move has been consistently touted with Celtic and West Ham both reported as potential suitors but could we be in for another Merseyside scrap (with less kicking and punching one would hope). Liverpool have been linked with a surprise move to offer Ireland a lifeline whilst fierce rivals Everton may have to look to replace Steven Pienaar who appears to want out. I think he might make a good scouse but limited chances at Villa would surely mean limited chances at Liverpool. Stories have also been broken that the midfielder may look to get back into the international scene after falling out with the management years ago. The decision is reportedly being considered in order to put himself in the shop window after looking unimpressive from the stands last weekend! I say keep him, play him and he’ll come good but sadly I don’t think Gerard Houllier reads this blog and along with most of the Villa team, we had a falling out so he won’t listen to me! Stay or Go, what do you think?
