Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Ireland has put pen-to-paper on a new four-year deal with Manchester City.

Contract negotiations between the two parties had run for some time, long enough indeed for the player to voice his frustration on more than one occasion.

But following his recent international exploits City have moved to secure the 20-year-old who becomes the latest academy graduate to pledge his long-term future to the club.

"I don't have to worry about my immediate future, I've got a long contract now and it'll set me up for a few years to progress myself and become a fixture in the side," Ireland said.

"You see Bradley (Wright-Phillips), Willo (Flood) and Crofty (Lee Croft) getting sold last year, so I could have been in that boat. I'm glad that I've been kept on."

Recent eye-catching performances for the Republic saw Ireland's stock rise, ensuring  City would quickly accommodate a prospect who has scored three times for his country in five appearances.

"I'm happy here and hope to stay for as long as possible," added the player who has featured 23 times for Stuart Pearce's side this season.

"It's a good time for me to get my new contract, I've been here a few years and now I'm looking ahead to the next few."