Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill admits he faced a battle convincing Richard Dunne to leave Manchester City.

O'Neill said: "Manchester City has been part of his life for quite some time and leaving a club when you have been there a long, long time can be a wee bit more traumatic than some might think.

"He has the type of characteristics you look for. He's strong but he can use the ball well too."

Dunne is expected to complete his £6 million move to Villa Park today.