Chris Hughton has been hailed as an inspiration – by a former FA Cup winning colleague.

Garth Crooks paid tribute to his former Tottenham colleague as Kick It Out and the PFA hosted a private event in honour of the Albion boss.

The two played for Spurs when they famously won the 1981 FA Cup final in a thrilling replay against Manchester City.

Crooks is an independent Kick It Out trustee and a huge admirer of the work Hughton is doing as one of the very few BAME managers in the English game.

He spoke at the event staged by Soul Store West in Kilburn, London.

Crooks later told The Argus: “It was a great night to rightly celebrate and recognise Chris Hughton’s success with Brighton and Hove Albion this season.

“As one of the few BAME managers in English football, Chris continues to be an inspiration to aspiring coaches.

“It was fantastic to see Chris enjoying himself surrounded by his friends and family.

“On a personal note, it was the first time I met the Brighton and Hove Albion chairman, Tony Bloom.

“I was very impressed, he was revelling in promotion – as he rightly should be.

“Brighton are lucky to have a manager with Premier League experience and a chief executive in Paul Barber as well, who has experience of the top flight.

“The club couldn’t be better prepared and it could be an exciting season ahead.”

Barber, Bloom, club ambassador Alan Mullery and executive director Martin Perry were among those representing the club.

Guests also included Curtis Fleming, Ossie Ardiles and various key figures from the media and music, such as Soul II Soul’s Jazzie B and DJs Spoony and Trevor Nelson.