JAMES DUNNE SIGNS ONE YEAR DEAL WITH U'S
Cambridge United have today agreed terms on a one year contract with midfielder James Dunne, who will remain at the Cambs Glass Stadium until the end of the 2016/17 season.The 26-year old arrived at the U's in January from Portsmouth on an initial six month deal, and after impressing with his robust playing style during the second half of the campaign for Shaun Derry's side, has earned a permanent move.
After beginning his career with Wimbledon, Dunne went on to progress through the academy ranks at Arsenal before joining then League One outfit Exeter City in 2009. Spells with Stevenage and St Johnstone followed until a move to Fratton Park in 2014.
Following a release from his contract on the south coast last season, the U's were quick to snap up Dunne's combative services in which he aided United to 16 games unbeaten during his 19 appearances.
Having secured a long-term future at the Cambs Glass Stadium, Dunne is delighted to be teaming up with the U's once more and said: "It's great to be signing for the club and I'm really pleased to be able to work with Shaun (Derry, Manager) and Joe (Dunne, Assistant Manager) again, as I really enjoyed the way they worked last season.
"There's also a fantastic group of players here, who gave me a great welcome back in January and I can now look forward to playing alongside next season, including the new players.
"Overall it was a good second half of last season, with a few frustrating games that saw us fall just short of the play-offs, but we'll be aiming to improve on that this year.
"With the deal done, I can concentrate on pre-season and working hard to get as fit as possible for that first game in August against Barnet, which will be a great game to begin with."
U's Manager Shaun Derry was also pleased with the permanent addition to the squad, and added: "We're delighted to welcome James back to Cambridge United.
"He is not only respected by those involved in the first team but by the whole Football Club and was one of our major players after joining last season.
"He understands how we like to work and gives us good cohesion from the last term."
The Amber Army will be able to watch Dunne and any further signings that take place before the U’s pre-season fixtures, against Ipswich Town (23rd July, 3:00pm) and Aston Villa (26th July, 7:30pm) at the Cambs Glass Stadium.
Tickets for both games are available online, in-store and by calling 01223 566 500.