Ben Cabango proud after fine debut

14th August
First team
Ben Cabango

Ben Cabango was a proud man after the defender made an accomplished debut for Swansea City in their Carabao Cup win over Northampton.

The 19-year-old defender partnered fellow teenager Ben Wilmot at the heart of the Swans defence as Steve Cooper’s men claimed a 3-1 win over the Cobblers.

Head coach Cooper reserved particular praise for Cabango’s performance during his post-match media duties as the highly-rated centre-back produced an eye-catching display.

Cabango became a regular for the Swans’ under-23 last term, while also helping the under-19s to another FAW Youth Cup triumph.

And he could not hide his delight after getting his first taste of senior action in Swansea colours.

“It felt great to be out there,” he said.

Ben Cabango

“I was obviously nervous at first but I felt I grew into the game.

“I’ve been here for nearly five years now so it was a really proud moment for me.

“Winning 3-1 and starting a cup run means a lot to me and I feel it was a great debut.

“It would be good for us as a squad to get a cup run, it could possibly mean more games for me. If I can get a few league games under my belt then that would be great too.”

Cabango spent the first half of last season out on loan at TNS, becoming the first player to score in the Champions League while on Swansea’s books during his spell with the Welsh top-flight champions.

Ben Cabango

It was an experience he felt was an important one when it came to building on the expertise gained during his years in the Swansea academy set-up.

“A lot of the boys made their debuts last season, I was out on loan but I have learnt a lot from them and I have returned a better player,” he added.

“I’m delighted to have made my debut now and hopefully there are more to come.

“My experience I gained at TNS and the Champions League experience really helped me to develop as a player and a person so I believe my journey to this moment has been a good one.

“Hopefully I can push on now and continue this journey.”