Ireland has Uefa Cup ambitions

21 March 2009 12:34
Stephen Ireland believes Manchester City can be Uefa Cup finalists just as long as they do not continue being complacent during games.[LNB] The midfielder rued his side's cavalier attitude which led to them losing a two-goal lead against Aalborg and had to rely on goalkeeper Shay Given to save the day in a penalty shoot-out.[LNB]On losing a precious lead the 22-year-old told the Daily Mail: "It's been happening all season.[LNB]"When we play the lesser teams we make it hard for ourselves, which is stupid. We should do a professional job.[LNB]"But we always play well against the good teams and I'm hoping we can go as far as the final now. I don't see why we can't.[LNB]"We're at our peak and it's really important we finish strongly."[LNB]The Premier League side are now looking forward to a quarter-final meeting with Martin Jol's Hamburg having dispatched both Danish sides Aalborg and Midtylland.[LNB]CrucialAnd City boss Mark Hughes believes in-form Ireland will be a crucial player in his side's push for the Uefa Cup final after impressing in this season's Premier League campaign.[LNB]"He is having an outstanding season," said Hughes.[LNB]"We keep mentioning the season he is having but he is a guy that has a real drive and determination to have an impact on every game he plays.[LNB]"He is prepared to stand up and be counted and put a shift in for the team.[LNB]"I think he is an example to every one of the players in the squad.[LNB]"Because of the work that he has done and the work some of the coaches have put in, it has enabled him to become a better player. Everyone can learn from his example."[LNB]Ireland is hoping to overcome an ankle injury to keep his place in the City side to face Sunderland in a crucial Premier League encounter at Eastlands on Sunday.[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports