Stephen Ireland joins Stoke City on loan

Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Ireland has completed a loan move from Aston Villa to Stoke City.

The 27-year-old had been forced to train with the club's development squad in the early stages of the season after failing out of favour at Villa Park.

A number of clubs had been linked with his services, but Stoke have moved to secure the midfielder on loan for the remainder of the season.

It is not yet clear whether the deal involves a future purchase option.