Dunne hails defensive partner

20 October 2009 12:21
Richard Dunne has heaped praise on Aston Villa central defensive partner James Collins. Former Manchester City stopper Dunne has been in fine form following his summer switch and has already scored twice for his new club. Collins also got in on the act in the 2-1 victory against Chelsea at the weekend and Dunne insists the former West Ham man has been hugely impressive. Villa boss Martin O'Neill swooped for the duo over the summer as he overhauled his backline and the pair have formed a strong partnership. While Dunne has been taking most of the plaudits, the Republic of Ireland international believes his team-mate should not be forgotten. "He's been outstanding since he has come in. Every game has been brilliant," Dunne said. "In this game [Chelsea], he really topped it off. Any ball that came in the box, he headed out and on the ground, he dived in front of it. "Then for him to get the winner was really good. I think he is really enjoying himself, as am I. "It's going well and it's nice that we can score goals. The important thing is keeping them out, but for him to get the winner is also nice."

Source: SKY_Sports