'I'm really pleased for Joe'

Graham Potter heaped praise on Joe Rodon after the local lad helped Swansea City to victory – and a clean sheet – on his senior debut.

Academy product Rodon, from Llangyfelach, was drafted in for his maiden first-team appearance as the Swans faced Preston North End in their opening home game of the new season.

And the 20-year-old produced an assured display as the Swans triumphed 1-0 courtesy of Jay Fulton’s first-half header.

Rodon, who joined the Swans more than a decade ago, was handed his chance following Federico Fernandez’s move to Newcastle United.

And Potter saluted the Welsh Under-21 international on the back of mature performance.

“Joe came in for his debut and helped us to a clean sheet. I am really pleased for him,” said the Swans boss.

“He has been working away. He is a youth international, he has played under-23 football and come through our academy system.

“Sometimes the negative of one thing means an opportunity for someone else, and full credit goes to everyone in the academy – that’s the reason why Joe is here.

“He has taken the first step in his senior career. He has a long way to go and no-one is saying that he is the finished article, but I am pleased for him.”