Aston Villa boss cool over interest in Richard Dunne

Paul Lambert was today coy on speculation which linked experienced Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne with a move to Stoke City.

The 33-year-old Ireland international underwent a groin operation last month and Villa boss Lambert confirmed he will not be available until mid-September at the earliest.

However, the Scot was a little more reserved when pressed on whether Dunne, who is in final year of his contract at Villa Park, was still part of his plans.

Lambert has already ripped up Villa's defence, having sold James Collins to West Ham while Stephen Warnock and Alan Hutton have been told they have no future at the club.

"I have just read about that. I honestly haven't heard anything," said Lambert, when asked about Stoke's interest.

"Would he be available for transfer? He's injured and it's not something I've thought about. He's doing his rehab at the moment.

"The medical team tell me he's doing fine and he could be back by mid-September."

Gary Gardner has been ruled out for nine months after scans confirmed he sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury in Villa's match against Stoke in the U21 Premier League.

n Villa Jean Makoun has joined French club Rennes on loan for the rest of the season with a view to a permanent move.