Alex McLeish reveals Stephen Ireland "strop"

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.