Head coach hails Woodman, but reveals Benda injury blow

9th January
First team
Freddie Woodman penalty save Stevenage

Steve Cooper paid tribute to the professionalism of Freddie Woodman, but revealed injury to Steven Benda leaves him looking to add a goalkeeper to his squad during the January transfer window.

Benda had been due to start the FA Cup third-round tie at Stevenage, only to suffer an ankle injury in training.

The German is to undergo surgery on the problem, and is facing a number of months on the sidelines while he recovers.

Woodman started and kept a seventh clean sheet in nine games, denying Luke Norris from the spot late on - his fourth save from seven penalties faced in Swansea colours - and making an arguably even better save to keep out Arthur Read’s free-kick.

And head coach Cooper made clear how impressed he had been with the Swansea number one’s approach to an unexpected start.

“Freddie was not going to play today, Steven Benda was due to play but he picked up an injury in training, which was unfortunate for him as we like Steven a lot,” said Cooper.

Steven Benda

“But Freddie was made up to play, as that is what he enjoys doing, and he prepared brilliantly. He got his rewards for that, and I paid respect to that in the dressing room in front of the lads.

“We were pleased with the penalty save as it not only keeps a clean sheet, but makes sure there is no rocky ending to the game.”

Lewis Webb, who recently signed a new contract, was on the bench at the Lamex Stadium, but Cooper says Benda’s injury means it will be necessary to dip into the transfer market.

“Steven’s injury is serious, he is going to need an operation on his ankle which will rule him out for a few months unfortunately,” he added.

“It means we will have to look to get a keeper. Lewis Webb, who was on the bench today, is a fine young keeper but we are going to need to add another one in now and we are working hard on that.”