Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has backed team-mate Richard Dunne to deal with his World Cup heartbreak and deliver.

Dunne was part of the Republic of Ireland side cruelly defeated by France in Wednesday’s play-off second leg following William Gallas’ controversial extra-time winner, which came after Thierry Henry had twice handled the ball.

The Villa defender reported back to Bodymoor earlier today and now has just 24 hours to prepare for tomorrow’s trip to Burnley – but Agbonlahor insists the ex-Manchester City man has the character to cope with his disappointment.

He said: “I watched the game and was disappointed for Richard and the team. I have sympathy for him, because nothing went past him all night and yet they went out. He does the same for his country as he does for Aston Villa. He doesn’t let anything past him. He is a top class defender.

“I am sure by the time he gets back with us today he will be fine and get on with it. He is a good professional and he will be absolutely fine.  The impact James Collins and him have made this season is massive. It has definitely made a difference.

“We will have some banter about the World Cup and who is going, but it won’t really be on the players’ minds until the last game of the season.”