Hughton is certain the international involvement will aid Dunk’s development.

“He would have been looking at the levels knowing they are the levels you’ve got to be at week in, week out to get there, really good for him,” said Hughton.

“He’s wholehearted, Lewis, he’s been great for us and for him to be part of that, I think he would have enjoyed the games as a whole.

“He would have enjoyed watching how you have to defend against the quality of a Spanish team, particularly in that second half.

“I’m sure he’ll be better for that experience.”

Just two days after signing a new five-year contract with Brighton, Dunk was added to Southgate’s squad following the withdrawal of Burnley defender James Tarkowski.

He became only the fourth player in Albion’s history to be called up by England and the first since Steve Foster was part of Ron Greenwood’s squad for the 1982 World Cup in Spain.

“Really delighted for him, delighted for this football club, for the managers and coaches before me that have seen more of his progress,” added Hughton.

“I’ve seen him close to four years now but there are other coaches around who have seen him develop even more so.

“I think he has been knocking on the door for a while now.

“He’s in a position where I think they have good options and have players that have excelled so for him to be part of that group is great praise for Lewis and how he’s conducted himself over these last couple of years and how he’s wanted to learn.”

Hughton, whose side make the long trip north to Newcastle for Saturday’s Premier League clash, has an injury concern over midfielder Davy Propper.

The Holland international suffered an ankle problem in the victory over West Ham before the international break and is expected to miss a number of games.

“He’ll probably be out for a period of weeks,” said Hughton.

“How long that will be at the moment, I think we’ll just assess it.”

German playmaker Pascal Gross, who has not played since September 1 due to an ankle issue, could return at St James’ Park while fellow midfielder Dale Stephens and defender Gaetan Bong also face late fitness tests.

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