New Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given has given his backing to fellow Republic of Ireland international Richard Dunne, describing the centre-back as a “fantastic” player. Dunne has come under fire this season and is currently suspended after being sent off against Wigan last month.

But Given is more than happy to link up with his international team-mate after moving from Newcastle over the weekend.

“Dunnie is one of the best centre-halves I have ever played behind,” Given told www.mcfc.co.uk. “He is a fantastic player. We go back over a few years with the Irish squad and know each other well.

“The partnership between the centre-half and the goalkeeper is an important one and hopefully we will improve as well.”