Stephen Ireland looks to have put an end to speculation on any imminent return to international football after admitting his decision to stop playing for his country “feels like the best decision I ever made”.

The 23-old Manchester City midfielder has not played at international level since the Republic of Ireland’s game against Slovakia two years ago.

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni has talked to the former Cobh Ramblers player about a possible return, but has always admitted that the call must come from the player himself.

Now it looks like Ireland has made up his mind, saying he is looking forward to the upcoming international break to work on his fitness after a fine start to the season with Mark Hughes’ side and that playing for his country is the furthest thing from his mind just now.

“I’m not thinking about it at all. It’s just my position and it feels like the best decision I ever made,” said Ireland.