Dunne suspended by City

Manchester City defender Richard Dunne has been suspended by the club for a "serious breach of discipline".

Chief operating officer Chris Bird refused to elaborate on the incident but Dunne was not part of the City side which was named to take on Blackburn at Maine Road this afternoon.

The Irish international has made just one appearance for the club this season as a second half substitute on the opening day against Leeds, but has been an unused replacement in City’s other four matches so far.

In a statement, Bird said the matter would be investigated further this week before further action was taken.

It read: "Manchester City have today suspended Richard Dunne for a serious breach of club discipline pending further consideration by the club during the course of the coming week."

Dunne has previously encountered the wrath of City officials by not turning up for training but the club have not confirmed the precise nature of this latest indiscretion, which must throw his Maine Road future into doubt.