Irish soccer legend Paul McGrath is praying that Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne recovers from a shoulder injury in time for the European Championship finals in Poland this summer.

Dunne is currently undergoing treatment for his injury in America and McGrath believes his fitness is vital to Ireland’s hopes of upsetting Croatia, Spain and Italy.

“He is one of the players we need to be at their best at the competition. I think most people in Ireland would attribute us being there to Richard,” said McGrath.

“Even if he gets games in beforehand, I’d be dicey about him being up to scratch. But an 80% fit Richard Dunne, I’d bring.”