Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has praised Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi for the 'top job' he has done since taking over at the club earlier this season.

The Italian replaced Graham Potter in September and has continued the good work done by his predecessor, winning 13 of his 25 games in charge so far.

“I think that Brighton deserve a lot of credit and I understand why they get a lot of praise - I think they’ve done very well," said Frank. "De Zerbi and his staff have done a top job.

"I think he was privileged to come into a very well-run club, privileged to come in and stand on the shoulders of Graham Potter and his coaching staff. 

“After seven games, when Graham left, they had 16 points and were fourth in the table - that's a fantastic foundation to start from. 

“And De Zerbi and his staff have done a top job to continue that development and they are in a very nice position in the league.” 

When questioned further about De Zerbi, Frank discussed the playing style of his opposite number on Saturday, and how he plans to combat it.

“He was well-scouted by Brighton so that they could continue the possession-based style of trying to dominate teams on the ball," the Bees head coach explained.

“And he's very aware of what he wants in terms of the build-up phase, there’s a clearly a good structure there that they work on a lot. 

“So we need to be aware when handling that, hopefully with a good combination of very good, aggressive high pressure and, at times, a very good, well-structured and solid low block.  

“That's on the defensive side and then, hopefully, we can also create something going forward.”