Ireland signs new deal

Stephen Ireland has today pledged his future to Manchester
City by signing a five year contract with the Club.
The new deal sees the 21
year old midfielder, who made his debut for the Blues in 2005, commit to the
Club until June 2012. Ireland, who first came to prominence at City’s
successful youth academy has played over 60 times for the Blues and has won six
Republic of Ireland caps.

"I am delighted to commit my future to Manchester City.
The last week has been extremely difficult for my family and I but it is a
terrific boost to sign a long term deal, which I hope shows my commitment to the
Club and the fans as well as the Club’s commitment to me. "I am very
settled at the club and the support I have received from my partner, family and
everybody around me has been fantastic.

"I would like to thank everybody who has sent me
messages of support over the last few days, including fans of City and Ireland.
The understanding shown to me by Sven Goran Eriksson, the City players and
backroom staff has been fantastic. I am glad to be back training at City and
looking forward to being part of the squad to travel to Fulham on
Saturday".