McLeish: Dunne ‘bang on schedule’ for comeback

Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish last night confirmed Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne was bang on schedule to return before the end of the Premier League season.

At one stage it was feared the Dubliner’s rehabilitation from an operation on a fractured collarbone would not allow him to play before Euro 2012 but McLeish insists Dunne will be playing in a Villa shirt within the next few weeks.

McLeish said: “Richard saw a specialist this morning and I’ve not had the full report from the doctor yet but what I’m hearing through another member of the medical staff is that it went well.

“He is right on schedule for playing again this season so it is good news. His experience is vital to the club.”

Meanwhile, Dunne’s Ireland teammate Darren O’Dea has been told he has no future at Leeds by manager Neil Warnock.

The on-loan defender has made 42 appearances for the npower Championship club this season but, after he picked up two suspensions in less than a month, Warnock has decided to release the Celtic man.

He said: “I have decided we won’t be signing him for next season. I’ve had chat with him, and I’m going to let him have a break before he goes and plays in the European Championships in the summer.

“We thank him for what he’s done but I do feel it’s time to move on in that area. He’s had good games and average ones, but one or two people have come into my reckoning now that I’m looking for and hopefully we can tie those players up now over the next few months.’’

Another Irish defender, Sunderland’s John O’Shea will return to the squad for today’s Premier League trip to Aston Villa. The Republic of Ireland international has missed the last five games with a calf problem sustained early in the 3-1 victory over QPR on March 24.