Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi has expressed his disappointment following a new injury setback to captain Lewis Dunk, whom he described as an “unbelievable leader” for the team. Dunk, who has been a crucial figure in Brighton’s rise in the Premier League, has sustained an injury that will see him sidelined for the foreseeable future. This is a significant blow for the Seagulls, who have already been dealing with a packed fixture schedule due to their participation in European competitions.
Speaking to the media, De Zerbi acknowledged Dunk’s importance to the squad both on and off the pitch. “Lewis is not just a top defender; he’s a real leader for us. His presence is felt throughout the club, and it’s always difficult to be without a player of his caliber,” said De Zerbi. He added that Dunk’s experience and leadership qualities have been pivotal in guiding some of Brighton’s younger players as the club navigates both domestic and continental challenges.
The timing of Dunk’s injury adds pressure to Brighton’s defense, which has already faced challenges in maintaining consistency amid injuries and fatigue. De Zerbi emphasized that the team would have to adapt quickly, relying on other squad members to step up in Dunk’s absence. “It’s an opportunity for others to show their quality, but of course, we hope to have Lewis back as soon as possible,” he stated.
Brighton will now have to adjust their defensive setup as they prepare for a critical run of fixtures in the Premier League and Europe. Despite the setback, De Zerbi expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to cope, highlighting the depth of talent within the team. However, the loss of Dunk, a central figure for Brighton, will be keenly felt as they aim to continue their impressive form this season.
GET MORE CONTENT HERE
Leave a Reply