Stephen Ireland insists he is willing to play anywhere under boss Steve Staunton after becoming the latest Republic of Ireland player to clarify seemingly disparaging comments.

Everton's Lee Carsley claimed on Sunday he had "misinterpreted" a question that led to a response which appeared to criticise Staunton's tactics and pre-match preparation.

Ireland has followed suit because after scoring the crucial winner in Saturday's 1-0 Euro 2008 qualifying victory over Wales at Croke Park, he bemoaned playing in an unaccustomed right-wing role.

The Manchester City man, who primarily plays central midfield for manager Stuart Pearce, now concedes he is "actually very happy to be honest."

"I'm not unhappy to play on the right wing," added Ireland, who is hoping to shake off an upper thigh injury to face Slovakia on Wednesday. "I don't play there naturally, but I am willing to play there regardless.

"Whenever you play for your country you're willing to play anywhere - whether it's left-back, right-back, it doesn't matter. I'll play anywhere for my country, and work as hard as I can."

When asked as to what he felt was his best position, he replied: "I play for City in central midfield. I like it.

"But I've also played left wing for them this season. I'm just happy to play anywhere if I'm honest, as long as I play."

Like Carsley, Ireland has also offered his firm support for the 38 -year-old Staunton who has found himself in the firing line since his appointment.

"He is getting the most out of us," asserted Ireland. "He has the right ideas, he's a very good manager, very good one-to-one, very good with the group, and I've a good relationship with him."

A glowing endorsement then from Ireland who has done more than any other player this year to keep Staunton in a job.

His winner 12 seconds from time in San Marino last month certainly spared Staunton the axe, while there appears to be breathing room in the wake of Saturday's triumph over Wales.

It is now three goals in three appearances at international level for Ireland - as many goals as he has managed in 50 appearances for City.

"I'm shocked actually at the consistency," remarked Ireland. "But I've had chances in the games, and luckily I've taken them. Scoring is a bonus and something I am happy doing. Hopefully I can keep it going, but I can't do it on my own.

"There's a great team behind me. I wouldn't have scored against Wales if it hadn't been for Robbie (Keane).
 
"Lee Carsley also does a great job. A lot of people forget what he is doing, while there are other good, solid performances being put in elsewhere."