Ireland link denied by Potters

Ireland link denied by Potters

Published Jan. 6, 2011 3:26 p.m. ET

Stoke manager Tony Pulis has ruled out making a move for Aston Villa's Stephen Ireland in this month's transfer window.

Ireland has been linked with a switch to the Britannia Stadium having failed to pin down a regular first-team spot at Villa under manager Gerard Houllier.

He has started just six times for Villa in the Premier League since arriving for £8million from Manchester City last summer, and has not appeared for the Midlands club since early December.

But Pulis has poured cold water over any speculation by insisting he is not interested in signing the 24-year-old.

ADVERTISEMENT

"No, that's not true. I've not even spoken to Gerard," said Pulis. "If we were going to do anything it would be through that channel."

Pulis admits he is looking to strengthen his squad this month, but added: "We'll get linked with everyone. They all say we're interested in every Tom, Dick and Harry.

"I'll do the business if it's right and if not, we'll get on with the squad that we've got."

share