Premier League: Stoke midfielder Stephen Ireland frustrated at lack of action
Saturday 31 January 2015 19:38, UK
Stoke midfielder Stephen Ireland has revealed his irritation over his time on the bench after impressing in the win against QPR.
The 28-year-old arrived at the Potters in a loan deal in September 2013 before securing a permanent move a year ago.
But injury and form has hampered his progress and his appearance in Saturday's 3-1 win against struggling QPR was only his seventh league game of the season.
"It’s been frustrating because I have been raring to go. I’ve been sitting on the bench just itching to get on to the pitch and it just hasn’t been happening at times," he told Sky Sports News HQ.
"I’m 28 so I want to be playing week-in, week-out. It’s not nice just sitting there. Of course I support the team and I want them to do well because I want to come into a team that’s winning and performing really well.
"I don’t want to come into a team that’s struggling at the bottom of the table. I’m kicking every ball with them but I want to be a little bit more involved and I’m grateful I had that opportunity today."
Ireland combined well with hat-trick hero Jonathan Walters for Stoke's second goal as they brushed aside Harry Redknapp's team.
"It was nice to finally get a start and I think I performed quite well," Ireland added. "I have been patient, I have waited a long time and when I’ve come on for five, 10, or 15 minutes I’ve always impacted the game whether it’s been an assist or keeping the ball or even scoring.
"Recently I’ve scored a lot coming off the bench in the cup games. It’s just something for me to build on and I’m pleased I got my start today and I’m pleased it was positive for everybody."
