Dunn still hungry for success

PLAYER PLEDGE . . . David Dunn has vowed to make a positive impression in an Oldham Athletic shirt.

DAVID Dunn has scoffed at the suggestion that he is past his best, detailing his determination to help turn Athletic into a force next season.

The 35-year-old, who has signed a one-year deal after leaving Blackburn Rovers, is ready for a fresh challenge at a lower level.

Dunn feels he was unfairly shut out at Ewood Park last term - despite his level of performance being easily good enough for the Championship.

Though he says he has nothing to prove in slotting into a very strong-looking midfield under manager Darren Kelly, it is clear the desire to impress has not waned.

"I played in the Championship last year and would have liked to play more," Dunn, who trained with Athletic for the first time today, told the Chronicle. "Anyone who saw me will know I was playing those games with my eyes shut.

"Of course, I am older now and won't be rushing around like I did when I was 18.

"But the experience I have picked up over the last 20 years is invaluable.

"People did say to me that I shouldn't drop down. I know it sounds arrogant, but I am not too fussed what other people have done or not done in the past. I am looking forward to getting my boots on again.

"I haven't come here to prove anything. I have a hunger and desire to show one, my ability, and two, that I am a good role model to younger players.

"Oldham have been in this league now for 18 years and hopefully, I can help the club get promotion.

"With the right backing we can do it.

"I have seen the really strong away following here and it is a new challenge that I can't wait to get stuck into.

"Some players might find it difficult, having their backsides wiped for them for 15 years and then moving down a level. I can't wait to get stuck in."

Dunn, who says he is in "decent nick", may just be considered ready to play some part in the opening Sky Bet League One clash of the season at Walsall.

While he doesn't see himself featuring in every game, the one-cap England man wants to make every minute on the field count.

"I played 15 games last year. Can I play 45 games? I haven't done that for a long time," Dunn added.

"I don't think it is down to how many games I play, it's what I do when I do play.

"If I can influence games like I know I can then it will be good for everyone."

Manager Darren Kelly has released ex-Stockport and Celtic defender Josh Thompson, who played at Halifax on Tuesday, but hopes to tie down Gavin Gunning to a contract in the next few days.

“We need a big ogre of of a centre-back who is vocal and who is a leader at the back,” said Kelly.

Fraser Kerr remains on trial and fellow hopeful Ryan Hiwat should get a chance to show his worth in the final friendly at Carlisle tomorrow.

twitter: @Matt_Chambers_