Stephen Ireland says Robinho's captaincy of Manchester City for Sunday's 2-2 draw was no token gesture.

The City midfielder said: "People think he might not be able to communicate but he does talk and he inspires and leads through what he does on the pitch.

"He is quick to take up positions, to make space for his team-mates and he works so hard for the side. It was fair that he was given the armband."