Dunk: Amex needs to be cauldron against Marseille

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Skipper wants fans to make it a hostile atmosphere for Thursday night's visitors.

Luke Nicoli

2023-12-13T06:00:00Z

The skipper enjoyed the post match celebrations after our 1-0 win at AEK Athens confirmed our spot in the knockout phase of the competition.

Lewis Dunk has called on Albion fans to turn the Amex into a cauldron of noise against Marseille in the Europa League on Thursday night.

While both teams have already qualified from Group B, the victors will finish top of the group and progress straight into the Round of 16.

“We are all focused on taking the three points as it would mean we go straight to the Round of 16 in March, rather than face a Champions League side in a play-off game in February,” said the Albion skipper. “Not that it would be an issue for us, but given the stresses and strains on the squad encountered already, it would potentially mean two less games to play in an already packed fixture list.

“So, we need our fans to really get behind the lads again as we prepare to face a very good Marseille side and, I’m sure an away crowd who will make plenty of noise.

“Marseille showed their capabilities against us at the Stade Velodrome and have since picked up three excellent results: back-to-back wins against AEK Athens and a 4-3 victory last time out against Ajax.

“Like us, they have grown into the competition and will also be keen to finish top of the group, so it should make for a really entertaining game.”

As Dunk mentioned, the Albion squad has been tested to the limit this season, given the injuries sustained by the squad and the extra games. It has meant a number of U21 players have been brought into the squad, with Jack Hinshelwood making his Europa League debut last time out at AEK Athens, in an unfamiliar left-back position.

“To see Jack come in for his European debut and perform so well in an unfamiliar position speaks volumes for his character and ability.

Jack Hinshelwood made his full Europa League debut in the 1-0 win at AEK Athens in November.

“He has a big future ahead of him and he is a credit to dad Adam and his family – and all the coaches who have worked with him in the academy since the age of eight.

“Josh Duffus also made his first-team debut in that game, while we saw Benicio Baker-Boaitey make his senior debut recently against Chelsea. We have had a number of other U21 players come into the squad in recent weeks, and none have looked out of place. It’s another indication of the clear pathway that exists at the club.”

To read more from Lewis, make sure you purchase Thursday’s 84-page souvenir edition of the matchday programme v Marseille, which also includes interviews with Chris Waddle, Joao Pedro and Simon Adingra – likewise the latest eye-catching poster commissioned by local artist Jamie Eke, which features Pascal Gross. The programme will be available on the night or online at https://shop.brightonandhovealbion.com/gifts/souvenirs/programmes/