Manchester City's "steady" captain Richard Dunne is close to signing a new contract at Eastlands, according to boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.Dunne has spent over seven years with City and is homing in on 300 appearances for the Premier League club.

Talks have been held regarding a new deal and City boss Eriksson appears confident the Republic of Ireland international will sign.

"I think it's ongoing and I know the club has spoken to his agent and I have spoken to his agent," Eriksson told the club's official website.

"I think it's not far away before he signs a new contract. He is very important for us and always plays very good football. He is very steady."

Eriksson also extolled Dunne's virtues as captain, saying the defender sets an example for his team-mates.

The Swede added: "I think a captain doesn't need to speak very much. It's important that the players look up to him and listen when he speaks and I think Richard Dunne is one of those players. When he has something to say no players argue with that - that's leadership.

"A captain is important. If I have any doubts and want to speak to anyone, I normally take the captain and ask his opinion, because he speaks for the players.

"As a coach you have a little bit more contact with the captain than the other players.

"If you take Richard Dunne, he sets a good example in the dressing room, the training field and the pitch on match days. He always gives everything, even today in training."

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