Source: Daily_Mail
Stephen Ireland's punishing training regime crucial to his sparkling form
[LNB]Stephen Ireland should be playing for the Republic of Ireland this week, but when Giovanni Trapattoni's side step out against Cyprus next Saturday, the Manchester City midfielder will be pounding the hills close to the Peak District.[LNB] There have been huge changes at Eastlands in the last 12 months but, despite the arrival of world class talent during manager Mark Hughes' £120million spending spree, Ireland has remained central to the club's plans. [LNB]This is how Ireland likes it. [LNB] Running to stand still: A goal against Blackburn on the opening day was an early reward for Ireland's preseason work[LNB] It is testament to his recent progress that his future has never looked brighter, despite Hughes being in the enviable position of signing whoever he fancies. Ireland remains in international exile following his decision in 2007 to lie about the death of his grandmother on the eve of a crucial game against the Czech Republic. [LNB]He has no plans to return to the international fold but his club career has travelled in the opposite direction. He recently agreed a five-year contract and is relishing the chance to help City challenge for major honours this season. [LNB]The driving force behind his success is his determination to hold his own in such exalted company. The midfielder spent the summer running and training at a martial arts school in Glossop, Derbyshire and has even been known to sprint up and down the nearby hills until midnight.[LNB] Don't look back: Ireland's absence from the international arena has helped him focus on improving[LNB] Ireland, who will be helping City try to maintain their perfect start at Portsmouth today, said: [LNB]'I'd drop the kids at school every morning then go up to Glossop about 8.45am, train until about 1pm. I'd come back, collect my kids, go home, put them to bed about seven then go back to do it all again until about midnight. [LNB]'I've done that every day, Monday to Friday. It was running in the morning, weights at night. I just want to be strong and sharp. During the international break I will be up at Glossop training every day. I have eight days planned.'[LNB] Club-by-club guide to every summer deal in the Premier LeagueAston Villa close to £8m deal for Manchester City captain DunneMANCHESTER CITY NEWS AND VIEWS FROM AROUND THE NET [LNB]
