Play Stephen Ireland, Aston Villa boss urged

Published Nov 7, 2016

Last updated Jun 21, 2012

Darren Bent today urged Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert to give Stephen Ireland a long run in a midfield playmaker role when the new season kicks off.

Ireland picked up the 2011-12 supporters' player of the season award having produced some encouraging performances after a difficult first campaign with the claret and blues.

But Bent believes there is more to come from his Villa team-mate provided he is utilised in his favoured position behind the striker where he can be more of a creative influence.

"There's no point playing Stevie Ireland one game and then moving him to the right and then taking him out of the team," said Bent.

"You've got to play Stevie Ireland four or five games in that position and go from there.

"For me, he's the best footballer in the squad, and if you want to see the best Stephen Ireland and get the best out of him you need to be playing him.

"As a striker you want to have somebody like that picking out your runs and playing passes to give you more chances and the best way to do that is to play him in the 'hole'.

"Confidence can make a massive difference to any player and when he is feeling good about himself the performances will follow."