Alex McLeish has revealed that he held clear-the-air talks with Stephen Ireland regarding his role in the team following Robbie Keane's loan signing.
According to the Scot, Ireland "threw a strop" when he was sacrificed to accommodate the Los Angeles Galaxy striker during his brief return to the Premier League.
"My assistant Peter Grant thought Stephen threw a wee strop when we moved him to the left," said the Aston Villa manager.
"I said to Stephen, 'You didn't throw a strop did you?'. I told him that with the excellent form he is showing, he could play anywhere."
Keane performed well during his spell at Villa Park, scoring three goals in six games.
Written by
Michael Penkman
Michael Penkman
