Middlesbrough have been linked with a move for Aston Villa midfielder Stephen Ireland in the last few weeks, but the manager Tony Mowbray has chosen to remain quiet on this transfer rumour. This has once again intensified speculation that the Championship club will be able to get a player at the peak of his career. At times, Ireland has been one of the best players for Aston Villa and Manchester city. These are the two clubs he has played in the last five years. However, he has been unable to realise his potential due to several personnel problems.