‘Hughton has taken Brighton to next level’
LEWIS DUNK has hailed Brighton boss Chris Hughton for helping him mature into a top-class defender.
Hughton celebrated four years at the Brighton helm on December 31, having steered the Seagulls to Premier League stability in that time.
Centre-back Dunk cited his England debut in the 3-0 win over the USA at Wembley in November as a personal highlight for 2018, crediting Hughton for helping him realise his international ambition.
“I’ve had a few managers at this club, and he’s definitely up there with the best I’ve had in my career,” Dunk said.
“It’s massive to have him at the club. He’s been massive for my development. I think I’ve come on leaps and bounds since he’s been in charge.
“I’ve become more and more consistent and he’s calmed me down as a player. A few years ago I was getting a lot of bookings and I’ve calmed down recently.
“That’s probably down to talking to and learning off him, because he was a defender too.”
Dunk hailed former Republic of Ireland defender Hughton for helping Brighton realise that longheld Premier League dream – then insisted the Seagulls will not lose sight of their main objective, that of top-flight safety.
“He’s taken this club to the next level after it had been trying to reach the Premier League for a long time,” Dunk added.
“For him to actually do it is a great achievement for the club and the whole city. It’s a massive credit to him.
“We’ve got to look above us but we’re nowhere near safe and we’ve got a long way to go.”
Brighton turned the year in 13th in the league, and will open 2019 with a trip tonight to face West Ham, who could call on new signing Samir Nasri with Manuel Pellegrini battling a lengthy injury list and some tired legs.
The 31-year-old former France midfielder signed the deal on the day an 18-month ban for a doping infraction expired.