Brighton boss Chris Hughton says Lewis Dunk can be happy with his performance in defeat at Cardiff City.

Dunk headed the Seagulls into a sixth-minute lead, scoring his second goal in as many games, and with the defender now heading off on international duty with England, Hughton believes the 26-year-old can take confidence with him.

“Lewis Dunk has come out of this well — he's got a goal for us and I think he was very good today.

“He can use that and be confident enough going into the England squad knowing that he thoroughly deserves it.

“He's a player that's worked hard at his game and has matured over a period of time. He's put in the type of displays that's got him the recognition he deserves."