Defensive displays delight Mike van der Hoorn

Mike van der Hoorn revealed Swansea City’s improved defensive displays have been provided huge satisfaction this season.

The Swans proudly sit top of the Championship going into the international break after five wins and a draw from their opening six matches under new head coach Steve Cooper.

Three of those matches have returned clean sheets – the latest during a 1-0 win at Leeds United last time out - with the Swans currently boasting the second-best defensive record in the division.

And van der Hoorn, who has excelled alongside Joe Rodon in the heart of defence, points to the team’s defensive efforts as a major positive in the early results.

“It is really good to be top of the table and unbeaten going into the first international break,” said the Dutchman.

“To get a clean sheet away in our last game was brilliant. We couldn’t sort that out last year but we are now.

“From a defensive aspect, everyone in the team can be proud of what we have done so far – not just the defenders or Freddie (Woodman), but the midfielders and forwards too. It has been a team effort.”

The Swans sit two points clear of second-placed Charlton after six games, but van der Hoorn was keen to point out the squad aren’t getting carried away at this early stage.

“This is only the start. We can’t look too far ahead like promotion places or the play-offs,” said the 26-year-old, who scored the winning goal in the opening-day win over Hull City.

“There are still 40 games to go, but we are pleased so far.

“We just need to keep going, be happy on the pitch, play with pride and do the best we can. That way, our qualities will show and make a difference.”