Fabian Hurzeler revealed the “impressive” efforts made by the skipper after his side won 2-0 at Brentford.
He said Dunk and defensive partner Jan Paul van Hecke set a benchmark in terms of performance as their side kept a clean sheet away to a dangerous Bees side led by 17-goal Igor Thiago
Head coach Hurzeler said: “Our skipper came from a tough period.
“I know he has pain, but he keeps going for the club. He keeps going for the team.
“And I think JP is a role model regarding winning mentality.
“He always wants to get better, he always wants to push everyone.
“They showed a good performance and that was the benchmark and hopefully they can keep doing it.”
Asked by The Argus what pain Dunk had been through, Hurzeler joked: “Pain in the whole body!”
He added: “No, I think he struggled sometimes with his knee, but through the whole season.
“People don't know it, and I think it's very important to get an understanding what he sacrifices for the team, what he is doing for the team to get us out of this situation, and I think it's just impressive.”
Albion’s win ultimately did not change their league position of 14th once Sunday’s games had been played.
But they have moved nine points clear of 18th place and within reach of five teams just above them in the table.
Focus now turns to the visit of Nottingham Forest on Sunday.