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From the BBC News Desk
Stephen Ireland apologises for lying about the reason for his withdrawal from the Republic of Ireland squad.
Ireland pulled out of the Wednesday's match in the Czech Republic shortly after Saturday's draw with Slovakia.
The midfielder cited the death of a grandparent when in fact his girlfriend had suffered a miscarriage.
"I realise now that it was a massive mistake on my part and I deeply regret it," said Ireland.
In a statement on City's official website Ireland explained: "When the game in Bratislava ended our manager Stephen Staunton took me outside the dressing room into the corridor, along with the Ireland team doctor.
"He told me that they had taken a call from my girlfriend, Jessica, and she said my grandmother had died.
More...
Stephen Ireland apologises for lying about the reason for his withdrawal from the Republic of Ireland squad.
Ireland pulled out of the Wednesday's match in the Czech Republic shortly after Saturday's draw with Slovakia.
The midfielder cited the death of a grandparent when in fact his girlfriend had suffered a miscarriage.
"I realise now that it was a massive mistake on my part and I deeply regret it," said Ireland.
In a statement on City's official website Ireland explained: "When the game in Bratislava ended our manager Stephen Staunton took me outside the dressing room into the corridor, along with the Ireland team doctor.
"He told me that they had taken a call from my girlfriend, Jessica, and she said my grandmother had died.
More...
