ALEX McLeish is demanding a season full of “Paul McGrath” performances from Richard Dunne after the Irish defender heroicially emulated his feted predecessor in midweek.

Dunne required stitches to his face after a brave defensive display inspired Ireland to a Euro 2012 0-0 qualifying draw with Russia in Moscow on Tuesday.

He was so impressive that Villa and Ireland legend McGrath, nicknamed ‘God’, hailed it as the best ever performance from an Irish defender – including himself!

McLeish ackowledges that coming from McGrath it is high praise indeed – but challenged Dunne to maintain his standards.

“He had four stitches in the bottom of his chin after taking a bit of a battering on the track,” said McLeish.

“He ended up getting booked for it as well so the referee obviously didn’t have a very good view of the incident.

“He made contact with the ball and there was no way the players were going to avoid each other in a 50/50 like that. He had the double whammy of a cut face and a booking to boot. He had some game!

“He’s a player who has always been renowned for his commitment. He maybe doesn’t get so much credit for other parts of his game.

“Richard’s a really terrific player and he’s started this season in wonderful form and his performance in midweek was colossal.

“We’re looking for him to turn in 30 or 40 games like that this season.