Milner shrugs off Ireland Man City talk

26 August 2010 08:30

New Manchester City midfielder James Milner will not be drawn into a debate with Stephen Ireland.

The pair moved in opposite directions this month, with Aston Villa signing Ireland suggesting that Milner was in for shock if thought the grass was greener on the other side.

Milner could afford a wry smile in response, especially as his debut on Monday ended in a 3-0 victory against Liverpool, and he said: "I have not seen the story but heard it second and third hand. Hopefully he can do well at Aston Villa and be a great signing for them. Likewise hopefully I can have success here."

He added: "The set up is very good at City. The professionalism and attention to detail, down to the recovery and preparation for games, is right up there.

"So we are geared up to doing very well. It is down to us to go out on the pitch and see who far we can go. We will take it one game at a time.

"I knew it would be a good opportunity. Aston Villa are a very good club and we came close to winning something last year.

"Manchester City are also a very good club and moving in the right direction. They have a lot of fantastic players."

Sheikh Mansour took in a match for the first time since the Abu Dhabi Group took control of the club.

Then he had a chat after the victory against Liverpool with manager Roberto Mancini, who said: "He was happy with the victory and the performance. He was happy for the supporters.

"I think it was a fantastic night for him. I hope he comes more often because it is important for us."

Source: PA