Let’s not Bong on about it
BRIGHTON boss Chris Hughton insists Gaetan Bong has no concerns about returning to Burnley today, despite the reception he got last season.
The Seagulls full-back, 30, was booed throughout the match at Turf Moor after accusing Burnley-born striker Jay Rodriguez of racially abusing him during a match against West Brom in January.
The charge was found “not proven” but Hughton called the reaction of the Clarets fans “shameful”.
Bong goes back to the same ground for the first time today but, when asked if he had any concerns, Hughton said: “No, not really. Certainly as regards Gaetan he is one of the most focused players I have seen, so definitely not.
Think
“I think we were all disappointed with the crowd reaction last time.
“But I don’t think that’s a reflection of the club. It’s a wonderful club with a wonderful history.”
The former Newcastle manager also insisted Burnley will stay up.
Hughton added: “I don’t think they will be relegation candidates.
“Things will kick in for them, I’m very confident of that. They’ve got a very good manager and a way of playing that over a season will get them results. I expect them to improve.”
There seems little chance of Brighton going down either, as they head into the game in 10th place and looking for a third Premier League win in a row.