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Stephen Ireland has six caps for the Republic of Ireland

Stoke City midfielder Stephen Ireland has broken his leg in training.

The 29-year-old former Republic of Ireland international "is facing an extended spell on the sidelines", said a Potters statement.

The former Manchester City and Aston Villa player has made 16 appearances in all competitions for Stoke this season and came on as a substitute in their 2-1 defeat by Crystal Palace on Saturday.

He arrived at the Britannia Stadium in January 2014 after a period on loan.