Anthony Wright targets strong Youth Cup run

Anthony Wright hopes Swansea City Under-18s can enjoy a strong run in this season’s FA Youth Cup as they launch their campaign against Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday (1pm).

The young Swans enter the competition at the third-round stage at Landore, aiming to reach round four for the first time in three years.

Wright’s side were beaten 3-0 by eventual champions Manchester City at this stage of last season’s competition, having gone out to Aston Villa the previous year.

Standing in their way of progressing are QPR, who have conceded 33 goals in their nine games so far this campaign.

Like the Swans, the Rs bowed out in round three last year - losing 3-1 to Mansfield Town after extra-time.

One of the biggest games on the under-18s’ calendar in any season, Wright wants to see his players rise to the occasion by expressing themselves and performing to the best of their capabilities.

Should they do that, the under-18s’ coach is confident they can achieve a positive result against the young Hoops.

“We just want players to go out and express themselves and enjoy the game,” he said.

“They are aware that a Youth Cup game is always an important one in the calendar. 

“We don’t want it to be an occasion that passes them by; we want them to enjoy the game, get on the ball and play with no fear.

“We’d love to have a good run in the competition. We believe we have a good set of players here, so there’s no reason we can’t do well. 

“To do that, they players must perform to the best of their capabilities – not just with the ball, but also outworking their opponents off it. 

“If we do those things collectively and win more individual battles, I’m confident we can get a positive result.”