Lewington doesn't get the credit he deserves

Captain Dean Lewington continues to impress manager Russell Martin and does not get enough recognition for his abilities.

The 36-year-old is set to make his 800th career appearance tonight against Wigan Athletic - a stat he admitted means very little to him.

But his boss says Lewington's attitude and ability have surprised him since arriving at the club nearly two years ago, and praised the skipper for reaching his latest landmark.

"Eight hundred games in any level is just incredible," he said. "He plays and continues to plays at a level, you know what you’ll get, he’s a real leader with so much experience. He doesn’t get the credit for the footballer he is. I was surprised how good of a footballer he was when I signed. He’s made the most key passes in the league because he’s an outstanding footballer.

"What keeps him going is he thinks he’s a big kid in his mind and that maintains his enthusiasm. I still think he has a couple of years elf tin him too.

"He’s been the biggest advocate for what we are doing and that’s why I praise him so much – he does his job. That’s all you can ask as a manager, he’s a fantastic captain and I’m pleased I don’t have to room with him anymore! But I'm glad he’s on my team."