Source: Daily_Mail
French fitness coach Robert Duverne at centre of Aston Villa row
Robert Duverne has been named as the man at the centre of Aston Villa's infighting as defensive duo James Collins and Richard Dunne are set to discover the extent of their punishment for being involved in a row with coaching staff during a team bonding day.
The French fitness coach was caught up in the storm of France's bitter 2010 World Cup fallout after his bust-up with Patrice Evra in South Africa last summer.
And it understood the 43-year-old, who arrived at Villa Park when Gerard Houllier took charge earlier this season, came under extraordinary criticism from Dunne over his strict training methods during a alcohol-fuelled rant during a meal at the luxury Champneys Springs Spa resort in Leicestershire.
Controversy: Robert Duverne's strict fitness training methods are said to have angered Dunne and Collins
The pair also allegedly launched a verbal attack on boss Houllier and other members of the club's coaching staff, which is said to have disappointed most of their stunned team-mates.
'Many of the squad are happy with how Duverne has improved their fitness and match sharpness,' a source close to the club, told The Sun.
'But some of the other players have complained continuously about extra runs at the end of sessions and gruelling tasks within the season.
Trouble ahead: Richard Dunne and James Collins are set to discover their fate following their drink-fuelled rant
'Dunne and some other senior players do not understand why they are doing pre-season style fitness work in March.'
Tables were also said to have been damaged during the incident. But coach Gordon Cowans, who was present, must submit a statement as part of the club's disciplinary procedure before he can comment.
Dunne and Collins have had to explain their actions at club disciplinary panels during the past 48 hours.
Plenty to ponder: Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier must decide whether to bring Collins back into his side
Villa could hand out the maximum fine allowed of two weeks wages if they feel the actions of Collins and Dunne merit such stiff action.
Dunne, signed from Manchester City just over 18 months ago, had a training ground altercation with Houllier's number two, Gary McAllister, before Christmas.
He is currently recovering from a dislocated shoulder which will rule him out of Saturday's home Barclays Premier League meeting with Wolves.
Houllier will be hoping Collins is available after a calf problem as Ciaran Clark is suspended after incurring 10 bookings for the campaign.
Dunne to learn fate after booze-fuelled rant at Aston Villa coaching staff.
