Interviews

Upson: Dunk is a focal point for Albion

Former defender impressed by skipper's progression.

By Charlie Hanson • 25 February 2021

By Paul Hazlewood
Lewis Dunk was made captain at the beginning of last season.

Matt Upson believes that Lewis Dunk's strong links with the club make him the perfect man to captain Albion.

Upson joined Albion initially on loan in January 2013 from Stoke City, before making the move permanent for the following season, a campaign where he would go onto win the Albion Player of the Season award.

The former Arsenal, Birmingham City, West Ham United and England defender has seen Dunk progress from up-and-coming player to club captain.

By Paul Hazlewood
The former England international spent 18 months at the Amex.

“He is now an established name in the Brighton team, he's a real focal point. One of his standout assets his ability with the ball at his feet, he's always had that – how comfortable he is passing the ball out.

“I thought he played well against Crystal Palace, although it wasn't a good result for Albion, but his development from a young player to being the captain has been very impressive.”

The strong ties between Albion and Dunk only add to his leadership qualities, according to Upson.

“He has a really tight bond with the club that is rare in any team. He always had the stature to be a leader, he leads by example.

“You can see his commitment levels on the pitch, his aggression and he has definitely got the personality in and around the dressing room. It doesn't surprise me that he's captain now.

“A lot of people think highly of him, the next step for him has to be playing for the international setup again. He has been involved before when he got one cap [against the USA in 2018].”

Upson is confident that Albion have shown real improvement on the pitch since last season, but wants to see them show that killer instinct.

By Bennett Dean
Matt Upson won Albion's Player of the Year for the 2013/14 season.

“The progression is definitely there, the performances haven't been rewarded with the results, the Palace game is the case in point.

“I have been really impressed with a lot of their build up, The home record is disappointing, but you can see the steps the manager is making and you can really see that within the team and how comfortable all the players are with the ball. Defensively they've been really sound. There's a lot of good foundations there for Brighton.

“Getting that goal that just kills off the other team is what they're lacking at the moment but Brighton have got a lot of players who like to have the ball at their feet and that makes them such an enjoyable team to watch.”