Ireland was heading towards the number two keeper after good performances last season during pre-season and the home league cup tie against Aldershot Town in which he made his debut.
However, Ireland felt ill whlst on holiday in his native Australia. A bowel obstruction was diagnosed and Ireland had surgery on June 18th. Due to only being able to consume fluids, Ireland lost 13kg in two weeks and was drained.
Now he is back in full time training at Ryton and told the CT: "I have been training with Oggy for the last week and a half but I did my first mini game and joined in with the other lads and it felt good.
"I was glad to get out back out there - definitely ready to play now to be honest. I probably need to work a little bit more on my fitness which I am lacking a little bit but I feel good and ready to go.
"I signed a new contract last year and I want to go out and try to make a name for myself and the only way to do that is to be playing matches.
"I had a chat with the gaffer at the end of last season and he said he wanted me to get out on loan to get experience and that is something I hope to get sorted out.
"I have spoken to my agent and he is quite positive in terms of getting me a loan at another league club. "I have just got to wait for the right club or an injury to someone for an opportunity to come up."