Stephen Ireland has thanked Newcastle United fans for their reception during last night's draw with Manchester United.
The on-loan Aston Villa midfielder came off the bench as a 69th minute replacement for Peter Lovenkrands during the 0-0 draw with Barclays Premier League leaders, Manchester United, to a rousing reception from the Toon Army.
"I was quite touched and surprised by the reception the Geordie people gave me," Ireland, who is on loan from Aston Villa, told the Newcastle Chronicle.
"Even when I was warming up fans were clapping and cheering. 'I was really impressed and taken aback by it.
"I am grateful and appreciate it a lot,' Ireland added. 'They have accepted me and want me to do well and that is all you want. 'I will now try to repay them by working as hard as I can."
