Graham Potter perfectly sums up Lewis Dunk after latest England snub

Centre-half Dunk, 29, has enjoyed another impressive campaign in the Seagulls’ defence.

The Albion captain also chipped in with his fourth goal of the season in last Sunday’s crucial 2-1 win at Southampton.

“His leadership will be really important and I think he’s getting better and better,” said Potter.

“It’s his second season being captain and he leads more naturally by example, he wears his heart on his sleeve and he takes on the responsibility of performing to the highest level, and he’s been the best player since I have been at the club.

“So he leads in that regard, but he’s also developing just how to lead as a man, as a person off the pitch and on it. He’s been a credit to himself. I am really proud of him.”

Potter was also asked if Dunk speaks with him about his England ambitions and disappointments on consistently missing out on Gareth Southgate's England squad.

I don't think it is something we really speak about, to be honest," said the Albion head coach. "I know Lewis, he's a proud guy. Of course it would be a massive honour for him to play for his country, he has that ambition.

"At the same time, he knows that it is not, outside of him playing well for us, his decision, it is someone else's decision and we respect that. So what he has done, I think, is focus on what he can control which is his performances for us and how he acts as a player, as a captain, and as a person for us.

"He's been amazing, I cannot speak highly enough of him. Like I said he's our best player but also he's improving as well and that tells you something about his professionalism and desire to be the best he can be. For me he has been a fantastic person and a captain to work with."

Dunk may have missed out on the latest England squad but another Brighton player did receive international recognition.

Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has been handed his first call-up for Spain ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Greece, Georgia and Kosovo.

It is a remarkable rise for the 23-year-old, who was on loan at League One Rochdale last season and only promoted to Brighton’s first team in November.

“I am very pleased for him, and for Ben Roberts and Casper Ankergren who work with him, as well as everyone in the academy,” added Potter.

“It’s a great story, we’re delighted as a club and it’s a reward for Rob for his work with us and his development since he has been with us, and everyone connected with the club who’s helped with that.

“I wouldn’t say I’ve been surprised, you never know when you first put him in, but his attributes are top-level stuff and of the highest level.

“The only thing he lacked was games and experience, and that’s the bit where you never know how things will go.

“What we see every day means I am not surprised, he’s got everything you need to be a top goalkeeper.”

Potter hopes defender Dan Burn will be fit to face Newcastle on Saturday evening despite going off at Southampton with a hamstring problem.