Stephen Ireland is ready to end his exile from the Republic of Ireland team, reports The Guardian.

The Manchester City midfielder has not played for his country since he was exposed for an elaborate lie about the deaths of his two grandmothers but he is understood to be willing to return to the squad when Giovanni Trapattoni takes charge.

Senior figures at the Football Association of Ireland have been made aware that the midfielder's position has softened and that he will make himself available when Trapattoni names his squad for a friendly against Serbia on May 24.

Sven-Goran Eriksson, the City manager, has spoken at length with Ireland about the matter and Richard Dunne has also been encouraging his team-mate to resume his international career.

"I am willing to do anything I can to help to convince Stephen that it is the right decision," said Eriksson. "I really hope he will go back because otherwise I think there will be a day when he regrets it. He is a fine player and he deserves to be playing for his country."