Transfer Gossip: Bolton Wanderers interested in departing Stoke City midfielder

According to The Sun journalist Alan Nixon, Bolton Wanderers are interested in former Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Stoke City midfielder, Stephen Ireland.

Ireland, 31, has just been released by Stoke City, at who he spent the last five years. Ireland only played four times last season, starting just once.

The controversial attacking midfielder made his professional debut for Manchester City against Bolton Wanderers in September 2005. Once a highly promising player, Ireland went on to play 174 times for City, before moving to Aston Villa as part of a deal to sign James Milner.

Whilst at City, Ireland made his international debut for the Republic of Ireland, and went on to score 4 times in six games. His flourishing Ireland career ended in controversial fashion in 2007.

Back in the day, Ireland was constantly linked with Wanderers, but now his best days are certainly behind him.

At 31, can Ireland be of use to Wanderers? There’s no doubting he was once talented, but has spent the past few years on the fringes of teams.

Anyway if reports are to be believed, Ireland will be handed a chance in pre-season training at the end of the month.

Do you think Stephen Ireland would be a good signing for Wanderers? Let us know in the comments box below.