Jimmy Dunne joins Fleetwood Town on loan from Premier League Burnley

Former Republic of Ireland under-21 international Jimmy Dunne has joined League One Fleetwood Town on loan from Premier League Burnley.

Dunne, the former Manchester United youth, joins Joey Barton’s side having impressed during recent loan spells with Accrington Stanley, Hearts and Sunderland.

The 20 year old Dundalk native made his Republic of Ireland under-21 debut in March 2018 – a 3-1 home win against Iceland at Tallaght Stadium.

The central defender also qualifies for Northern Ireland via the Grandparents rule, but he was called up to Mick McCarthy’s first provisional squad as manager since he was re-instated as manager.  

The Irishman featured in pre-season for Sean Dyche’s side, coming on as a substitute against the Cod Army in The Clarets’ 2-0 victory.

Speaking to Burnley’s media team, Dunne revealed his delight upon signing for his new employers on a season-long loan.

“It’s been good to be back and to learn from some top-class defenders,” he told Burnley FC’s website. “But it’s a good time to go out again and gain some further experience at first-team level.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge at Fleetwood and hopefully I can help them keep progressing in League One.”

Fleetwood Head coach Joey Barton added with his club’s media team; “We are really pleased to boost our defensive ranks with the signing of Jimmy on loan for the season.

“Despite his young age, he has a lot of experience and knows the division having spent time at Sunderland last season.

“We’re sure he will add to what is a really exciting squad, and we look forward to seeing his qualities in a Fleetwood Town shirt.”