FA lets Ireland off with warning

Ireland has had a controversial season for both club and country

Manchester City's Stephen Ireland has been warned as to his future conduct by the Football Association for pulling down his shorts against Sunderland.

Ireland, 21, celebrated scoring in a 1-0 victory by revealing a pair of pants bearing the Superman logo.

The FA reminded the Irish midfielder of his responsibilities and warned him that he faces a substantial fine if he does anything similar again.

Ireland recently signed a new five-year contract to keep him at Eastlands.

Before the FA made its decision, Professional Footballers Association chief executive Gordon Taylor said it would be right not to take action against Ireland.

Maybe Stephen Ireland needs to sort out Stephen Ireland Republic of Ireland caretaker manager Don Givens

"I think it is fair enough just to give him a warning," Taylor told BBC Radio 5 Live.

His first goal of the season at home to Sunderland lifted City up to third in the Premier League, two points behind Arsenal and Manchester United.

Ireland has already been involved in controversy this season, after he admitted lying about the reason for his withdrawal from the Republic of Ireland squad to face Czech Republic in September.

Ireland cited the death of a grandparent when in fact his girlfriend had suffered a miscarriage.

He also withdrew from the Republic squad to face Germany and Cyprus in October, saying he "would not do his country or himself justice".

606: DEBATE Should Ireland have been punished?

And he has not been included in the Ireland squad for the Euro 2008 qualifier against Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on 17 November.

The Republic's caretaker manager Don Givens said: "I felt (Former boss) Steve Staunton and the Football Association of Ireland made a lot of effort to get him back and that it was time for a bit of effort to come the other way.

"It wasn't forthcoming so I didn't consider him.

"It is one for the future manager to decide, but going forward, maybe Stephen Ireland needs to sort out Stephen Ireland.

"If that happens then I'm sure whoever the next Ireland manager is will be delighted to have a player like him available because he's a talented boy.

"I've seen him many times and was at Monday's game, but he needs to sort himself out."

Taylor added: "The lad has had serious personal problems. I am sure the whole football world will take an understanding attitude to this.

"Football is about joy and celebrating goals, as long as you don't go over the top."

Ireland is a graduate of the City academy and made his debut in a 1-0 home defeat by Bolton on 18 September, 2005.