Nationwide League: Lions seal Dublin loan swoop

First Division Millwall have bolstered their promotion push with the signing of Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin.

The 32-year-old former Manchester United forward has signed for the rest of the season, having seen his first-team opportunities restricted at Villa Park.

He will make his debut for the Lions in their league encounter against relegated Stockport at The New Den.

Millwall manager Mark McGhee sees Dublin as the perfect short-term replacement for Ireland international Richard Sadlier, who is likely to miss the rest of the season with a hip injury.

He said: ‘‘The fact we are signing someone of Dion’s calibre reflects how highly we rate Richard Sadlier.

‘‘We didn’t think we could just go out there and pick up a striker out of anywhere; we needed someone who was top quality, and that is what we are getting.

‘‘He could have stayed at Villa until the end of the season but he has chosen to come to us instead, and that says a lot about his attitude and desire to be playing football.’’