Ireland recalls Toon frustration

Ireland joined the Magpies on a temporary deal in January 2011 after struggling to establish himself as a regular in the Villa starting XI.

However, he was restricted by injuries to just two substitute appearances for Newcastle, before returning to Villa in the summer.

The midfielder is now set to line up against Alan Pardew's men this weekend and he is hoping to turn in a good performance, even though he feels guilty that Newcastle never got value for money from him after they paid most of his salary.

"I went to Newcastle hoping to get some games, but it never happened for me. It was a bit of a waste of time. I had an injury which knocked me off my momentum," Ireland said in the Daily Mirror.

"They got me fit and it was unfortunate that I couldn't repay them.

"I went on in the second half against Manchester United and did really well but in the next game against Blackpool I snapped my ankle ligaments.

"It was frustrating, but I'd like to think that's behind me now."

High hopes

Ireland has gradually rediscovered his best form under Alex McLeish this season and hopes to go from strength to strength over the remainder of the campaign.

He said: "When the new manager came here I came back for the new season with high hopes.

"I didn't play as much as I would have liked early on but I knew it was a long season and I would get in at some stage.

"I just had to keep the faith. Now I have got in the team, hopefully I can stay in there."

Ireland added: "Now I finally have a chance to show what I can do and build up a bit of a reputation. I'm hoping I can continue to grow."