Boss: Why Jim’s deal was Dunne
NEW signing Jimmy Dunne will go straight into squad for Sunderland’s promotion clash with Luton Town tomorrow as manager Jack Ross revealed why he brought him to Wearside, writes JAMES HUNTER.
Burnley centre-back Dunne has joined the Black Cats on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 21-year-old had spent the first half of the season on loan north of the border at Hearts but an ankle injury, coupled with the winter break in Scotland, means he has not played a first-team game since the end of November.
He has made a full recovery and, after being recalled from his stay at Hearts at the beginning of the week, played the full 90 minutes for Burnley Under-23s against Sheffield Wednesday Under-23s on Monday night.
Ross said: “Jimmy will go straight into the squad for tomorrow, he is fine.
“His injury was not too bad. The winter break in Scotland meant he was out for a bit longer but he trained for at least a full week prior to playing for Burnley’s Under-23s and then he trained with us on Thursday.”
Republic of Ireland under-21 international Dunne came through the youth system at Manchester United before joining Burnley in 2016.
He spent time on loan with National League side Barrow before joining Accrington Stanley on loan 12 months ago and helping John Coleman’s side finish as League Two champions.
He came to Ross’ attention during his time at Hearts.
Ross said: “Jimmy was one I identified because I have seen a lot of Scottish football.
“We feel he is a good fit for the club. He was schooled at Manchester United.
“We can say that about a few players here and generally they are a certain type of character in terms of how they conduct themselves, how they train.”