'I love him to pieces' - Gus Poyet waxes lyrical over Brighton 'genius'

Former Brighton manager Gus Poyet has hailed Albion defender Lewis Dunk as a “genius”.

By Jason Jones

Published 23rd Feb 2021, 08:00 BST

Lewis Dunk of Brighton & Hove Albion. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The towering centre-back remains a integral figure for the Seagulls, but really established himself as a first team stalwart during the Uruguayan’s time on the south coast.

The 29-year-old made his 22nd appearance of the Premier League campaign in his side’s 2-1 defeat against Crystal Palace on Monday evening, and prior to that match, Poyet was eager to sing his praises.

Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, the South American said: “Dunk is a genius. I love him to pieces.

"He was very young [when Poyet was at the club], he was coming through. When you start playing for the second team, you see the first team and you want to be in there, but there is a time.

"He was very intelligent, very clever, and now he is the main leader.

"I am pleased for him.”