Shay Given relief at Richard Dunne return

Aston Villa goalkeeper has praised Richard Dunne for his "immense" performance against West Bromwich Albion.

The 32-year-old returned to action after two months out with a broken collarbone to help his team keep a clean sheet at the Hawthorns.

Given believes that his Irish international teammate is key to the club's hopes of survival and said that he is a shining example to the youngsters.

"It was amazing to have Richard Dunne back in the side," said Given. "He had only trained a couple of times. For him to play was beyond the call of duty. His performance against Albion showed how immense Richard is for the football club. "He is a leader on the pitch and in the dressing room. Even just seeing him with the captain's armband on gave everyone a huge lift before the game. We are delighted to have him back. It has been a long time since he played and his performance was immense.

"The young lads look up to him. We've had quite a few youngsters in the team over the last few months. They see a performance from Dunney like that and they know that is the standard they have got to strive for."

Villa are three points above the drop zone with two games remaining.