Stephen Ireland to return to Aston Villa, Newcastle United?

Two of Stephen Ireland's former clubs are reportedly keen to re-sign the Stoke City midfielder.

The 29-year-old has struggled to force his way into Mark Hughes's plans at the Britannia Stadium this season, having failed to start a single Premier League game.

According to talkSPORT, it is a situation that both Aston Villa and Newcastle United are keen to take advantage of.

Ireland spent four years on the books of Villa, while during that time he also had a brief loan stint with the Magpies at St James' Park.

The report adds that both clubs would prefer to sign the former Republic of Ireland international on an initial loan basis.