Oct 5, 2026 9:11 PM
A veteran legend faces a high-flying newcomer as Pascal Struijk’s athletic dominance against Arsenal sparks a heated debate over Lewis Dunk’s long-standing leadership in Brighton’s starting XI.
Brighton and Hove Albion have a problem. A good problem perhaps. Too many centre backs? Well, in a way, yes. A lot of good quality competition, and we are still yet to see the likes of Michael Svoboda.
From Withdean to Wembley...
Lewis Dunk has been an Albion hero since his debut in 2010. An ever present in the backline, from League One all the way to European football.
Whilst Dunk has had questions asked of him in recent years, the 35 year-old always comes up with the answers. Defends with bravery, intelligence and leadership, which is never in doubt.
Dunk has been excellent so far this season, starting all but one game, which is a crucial factor in this debate- the 3-0 drubbing of Arsenal, in which Struijk played close to a perfect game.
Of course, Dunk is club captain, and has been since Bruno Saltor retired. So instantly you'd like to think that it's a no brainer who should be starting the majority of games alongside Luka Vuskovic.
Momentum bias? Perhaps...
Like I mentioned, Pascal Struijk was a Rolls Royce for the Seagulls against Arsenal. A very impressive performance which has fans asking if he should be starting ahead of Dunk.
Struijk brings a different profile to the table- left footed, more mobile and athletic than Dunk (the standard isn't that high), can carry the ball and is a better 'tracking' defender, so he was able to track Havertz into higher areas when he dropped, and restrict him very well.
However, the international break has come at the wrong time for Pascal, who signed last summer from Leeds United, for a fee of around 20m.
After a strong first competitive start against Manchester United and a sensational performance against the Gunners, you are more than entitled to say that he deserves a starting spot.
Who prevails?
I would have said a completely different answer if you asked me after the Arsenal game. After a strong performance, what is the point in dropping Struijk after two great performances against England's 'elite'?
However, the break came at a terrible time for the Dutchman, hence Dunk goes back into the team after a month or so away.
As much as I love both Pascal's being in the starting team (one taking the armband) one has to drop out, and spoiler, it's not Gross.
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