Dunne to remain City skipper
by Ciaran Baynes, 23 July 2008
Mark Hughes has confirmed that Richard Dunne will stay on as captain for the upcoming season.
Dunne seemed set to leave Eastlands at the end of the season after stalling on a new contract.
Since Hughes' arrival at the City of Manchester Stadium, Dunne has agreed on a new contract and his manager is delighted.
"It was important for me to understand Richard's position when I arrived here and get it resolved and now everyone is happy," Hughes told the Manchester Evening News.
"He fulfils the captain's role very well and will continue to do so.
"I have been delighted with the response Richard has made since he signed. He has been part of this squad for a long time and it was important we made sure he would continue to be a big part of things.
"His strength and pace at the back will be one of the keys to the way we play this year."
One setback for the City boss is the injury to Benjani and Hughes said he does not expect him in first team contention in the early part of the campaign.
"He was just taking a shot on goal during training and unfortunately damaged his thigh muscle quite high up and quite badly," said Hughes.
"The medical staff feel it will be well into the league season before he is back."