He was restricted to just two substitute appearances for Newcastle, before returning to Villa in the summer.
Stephen Ireland: "I went to Newcastle hoping to get some games, but it never happened for me.
"It was a bit of a waste of time. I had an injury which knocked me off my momentum.
"They got me fit and it was unfortunate that I couldn't repay them.
"I went on in the second half against Manchester United and did really well but in the next game against Blackpool I snapped my ankle ligaments.
"It was frustrating, but I'd like to think that's behind me now.
"When the new manager came here I came back for the new season with high hopes.
"I didn't play as much as I would have liked early on but I knew it was a long season and I would get in at some stage.
"I just had to keep the faith. Now I have got in the team, hopefully I can stay in there.
"Now I finally have a chance to show what I can do and build up a bit of a reputation. I'm hoping I can continue to grow."