Richard played 45 minutes for the Republic of Ireland last night and will be in contention for the weekend”, Pearce said. Adding: “I could have probably put Richard in last weekend to be honest - fitness wise - but I thought he was a bit short of match time.”
The importance of the Irishman is something not lost on the Manager: “At the end of last season he was sensational for me. Richard’s a big player for this football club and hopefully he’ll be here for some time to come.”
Last season’s Player of the Year hasn’t featured in the City line-up since facing Bolton on July 20 during the Asia Premier League Tournament and his return will provide a welcome boost.
City’s other defensive worry is over Club captain, Sylvain Distin, although his news isn’t as positive as Dunne’s. Pearce said earlier today: “Sylvain is still struggling with his groin problem. I’ll have a meeting with the medical team later and we’ll know a bit more then but he won’t be in contention for the weekend.
In other injury news, Robbie Fowler is expected to be back in training on Monday, and Nicky Weaver is already doing light training.
