Dion Dublin hails Cambridge's 'heart and soul' Jez George

Dublin helped guide Cambridge to the old Second Division play-offs in the 1990s

Ex-Cambridge United striker Dion Dublin has heaped praise on manager Jez George for his commitment to the club.

George, in charge at the Abbey since February, has been at the U's since 2006, when he helped set up the team's youth academy.

"I do believe Jez is the heart and soul of Cambridge United," Dublin told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire.

"Other than his family, I think that's all he lives for, he wants them to be secure, safe and successful."

George has guided numerous youngsters through the club's academy, has performed two long-distance walks to raise awareness of the struggles of non-league youth systems and helped maintain Blue Square Bet Premier football at the Abbey by staving off relegation last season.

He has also made a bright start to the new campaign, taking 11 points from the opening seven matches.

"People like that deserve plaudits, deserve mentions and deserve a lot of help," added Dublin, who scored 73 goals for Cambridge between 1988 and 1992.

"It's about time he was rewarded through respect and maybe a bit more help, because he's doing everything on his own at the moment.

"I don't think this season is all about the success and the achievement, I think Cambridge United need to be stable.

"They need to know they've got a few quid behind them - somebody that actually believes in Cambridge United and who will give Jez a bit of money to spend on a few players."