Cooper praises fine form of Connor Roberts

Steve Cooper felt Connor Roberts was a deserving man of the match after the Wales international played a starring role in Swansea City’s 2-1 win at Stoke City.

Roberts got the Swans back on level terms with a fine finish from Ryan Manning’s cross, after they had fallen behind to an early Nick Powell goal.

He nearly added to his tally in the second half, only to be denied by a fine save from Angus Gunn.

And he was heavily involved in the build-up to the last-gasp penalty that Andre Ayew converted to seal a valuable three points.

“He was brilliant, and he has been due the man of the match award,” said Cooper.

“It has been a bit of a standing joke in our dressing room, particularly when the games have been on Sky.

“He has finally got it tonight and it is well deserved. His defending was excellent.

“His goal and attacking play will catch the eye and he nearly got another one in the second half, but we put an emphasis on stopping and defending crosses as Stoke’s success rate from crosses is the highest in the league.

“He did that side of it well, so did Ryan Manning, but Connor has caught the eye with the goal and rightly so.

“He is doing great, we are so happy with him, and he just needs to keep it going.”

Cooper also had words of praise for Manning, as the Republic of Ireland international produced an assist and offered an outlet down the left all night.

“Ryan crossed for the goal and Connor scored, and we have seen similar things when Jake Bidwell has played,” added Cooper.

“He did it well, and hopefully we can keep it going.

“Our wing-backs show massive desire to get up and down the flanks every game, they want to leave everything out there for the cause.”