Boss salutes Barrie

Graham Potter paid tribute to Barrie McKay after the summer signing’s sweet strike saw Swansea City beat Bolton Wanderers 1-0.

McKay produced comfortably his best moment in a Swans shirt as he cracked the ball into the far corner of the net from the corner of the penalty area.

It was the Scot’s first goal since he arrived at the Liberty from Nottingham Forest in pre-season.

And Potter was delighted to one of his recruits produce a matchwinning moment.

“I thought Barrie’s first-half performance was really good,” said the Swans manager.

“He had a really good bit of play and a good pass which almost put Bersant (Celina) in and looked really dangerous.

“The goal was worthy of winning any game. I am pleased for him because he has been patient and he has been really positive around the group, wanting other people to do well.

“It’s nice for him that he has been able to contribute today.”

McKay was withdrawn in the second half thanks in part to a nasty bang on the head he received before the break.

But he had already produced the moment of quality required to secure the Swans’ first away win since September 1.

And Potter is convinced there is more to come from the former Rangers wideman.

“Sometimes it takes a bit of time to settle in at a new club,” he added.

“You have little moments that are up and down and it’s hard to be consistent.

“But Barrie has qualities we are excited about and it’s just about him enjoying his football.”

There was more good news for the Swans in Lancashire as Jefferson Montero and Wilfried Bony both came on in the second half following injury lay-offs.

Montero returned after two months out with a thigh problem, while Bony featured for the first time since rupturing a cruciate ligament at Leicester in early February.

“It was nice to see both Wilfried and Jeff back out there,” Potter said.

“It was not an easy situation for either of them to go into, but they have both worked very hard along with all the medical team.

“Congratulations go to the two players and to the medical staff for the work they have done.

“We are glad to have them involved again because they will strengthen our group.”