Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne to link up with NFL team

Richard Dunne of Aston Villa (GETTY IMAGES)

Injured Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne is linking up with NFL side the Cleveland Browns as he bids to return to action by the end of April.

Dunne is keen to make a comeback from a broken collarbone before the end of the season to bolster his chances of being fully fit for the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 campaign.

He is flying out to America to continue his rehabilitation with Cleveland who are owned by Villa chairman Randy Lerner.

Dunne said: "Because of the nature of American football, Cleveland have a lot of experience in dealing with this kind of injury.

"Any help I can get will be much appreciated. It will also be a great experience and I think it will be a good week.

"I'm hoping when I come back I'll be sorted and can push on with things and start training again."

Dunne added: "Hopefully I can be back before the end of April, that is the aim.

"But I'll just have to listen to the doctors here at Villa and see what is actually possible. I trust their judgement and will follow whatever they say."

Dunne suffered the setback in last month's home Barclays Premier League clash with his former club Manchester City.

PA