• Premier League

Dunne and Collins apologise for Villa bust-up

ESPNsoccernet staff
March 13, 2011
Richard Dunne was 'genuinely sorry' for his involvement in a bust-up with Aston Villa's coaching staff © PA Photos
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Aston Villa defenders James Collins and Richard Dunne have apologised after clashing with the club's coaching staff during a team bonding session.

Trouble erupted after Collins and Dunne were critical of some of manager Gerard Houllier's coaching staff during a team break at a Spa in Leicestershire, according to The News of the World.

The incident reportedly occurred at a dinner, held in a private room and restricted to the first-team squad and coaching staff, following a paintballing session.

"I apologise unreservedly for my behaviour on Wednesday night. It was not acceptable and I am genuinely sorry," Dunne told the newspaper.

Collins added: "We were wrong. This should not have happened and I apologise for the part I played."

The club are now due to launch a review of the incident, with a spokesman adding: "We have launched an investigation in line with our internal disciplinary procedures."

Villa manager Houllier has had to deal with a number of disgruntled players since taking over from Martin O'Neill at the start of the season and has shipped out both John Carew and Stephen Ireland following disagreements.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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