Dunne primed for ‘biggest club game of my career’
The Republic of Ireland player distinguished himself for nearly a decade at Manchester City and before that played with Everton, but, until now, he never progressed past the last eight of any major competition.
The 30-year-old said: “I’ve been to a few quarter-finals but every time I thought we’ve got a chance of getting to Wembley, we have been knocked out.
“There were games where we were expected to win when we were drawn at home but it never happened for whatever reason.
“I think this is the biggest club game of my career. We’re getting close to having a chance of getting a trophy and it will be good to look back when I’ve retired and be able to say that I’ve won a medal and played at Wembley.
“But, because of my record, I don’t even want to think about the possibility of a final. The opportunity is there but we have to make sure we’re 100% right for the two games and that we are still in contention going into the second leg.”
Villa overcame Blackburn 3-1 in the FA Cup on Saturday but Dunne believes that will have little impact on tonight’s game.
He said: “There will be a lot of changes on both sides probably from Saturday and a different style of football.
“I think they will be a lot more direct with their approach on Tuesday and we know how difficult it is.”
Villa boss Martin O’Neill added: “We are going to try and score a goal in the first leg, keep the game tight and still be in it for the second game.
“Winning on Saturday will not do us any harm psychologically but the style of football will be different.
“We have a lot of respect for Blackburn and we have to be on our game.”
Winger James Milner is Villa’s major selection worry after missing Saturday’s game with a foot injury and he was only able to undertake light training yesterday.
The likes of Dunne, Gabriel Agbonlahor and skipper Stiliyan Petrov will return against Rovers after being rested at the weekend.
Meanwhile Sam Allardyce has challenged Benni McCarthy to shrug off his frustration and steer Blackburn to the Carling Cup final.
The South Africa international striker is keen to move on as he does not feel that in World Cup year he is playing enough football.
The 32-year-old has made only nine starts for the club in the Barclays Premier League and League Cup this season and his business manager Rob Moore claims there has been interest in the player from a from a number of clubs.
While Allardyce admits he would love to keep McCarthy, who marked his debut season in England in 2006-07 with 24 goals, he will listen to offers for the player.
“I know and Benni knows why he is not playing as much but that is a confidential matter between the two of us, ” said the Blackburn boss.
“It really lies in his hands, not mine if he wants to play more.
“If he puts that right he could play a major part here and help us win a cup then go on to the World Cup.’’
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