Dunne flying ahead of ex-club clash
Friday 30th April 2010, 9:55AM BST.
Villa manager Martin O’Neill believes Richard Dunne’s recognition by his peers has come at the perfect time as the defender prepares to return to Manchester City.
The claret and blues head to Eastlands tomorrow for what will be Dunne’s first trip back to City since his controversial £6million switch last summer.
Dunne was made surplus to requirements by City following the arrival of Joleon Lescott and Kolo Toure, but it’s a decision they are likely to be rueing after the Republic Of Ireland international was named in the PFA Premier League team of the year at Sunday’s awards.
O’Neill admits the news has come as the perfect confidence booster ahead of the top-four face-off.
He said: “Richard Dunne was exceptional for Manchester City over a long period of time. He became an iconic figure. We are just delighted to have him. He has made an immediate impact coming here and he has been a really great signing.
“Richard was voted into the PFA team of the year which was a great boost for him. He would have derived a great deal of confidence from that.”
Dunne wasted no time tormenting his ex-employers by scoring for Villa in the 1-1 draw with City in October but chose not to celebrate the goal, receiving a standing ovation from the City fans.
O’Neill said: “Richard deserved the reception he got in the game at Villa Park and I expect it will be pretty warm again tomorrow.
“Manchester City would accept he was brilliant for them over eight or nine years.”
Despite having only joined on deadline day, Dunne has been one of Villa’s most influential players this season, according to John Carew.
The striker said: “Richard has been one of our best players this season. He was an absolute bargain for us. It’s not been a surprise he got in the PFA team with the way he is playing now.
“It would have been more of a surprise if he wasn’t.”
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