Joe Allen to miss Rotherham opener as Ben Cabango returns

Joe Allen will miss Swansea City’s Championship opener against Rotherham United, but Ben Cabango is available for selection.

The midfielder is continuing his recovery from a hamstring injury suffered while on international duty with Wales last month.

Head coach Russell Martin felt the 32-year-old was close to being in a position to be involved against the Millers, but does not want to take any risks with Allen’s fitness at the outset of a long season.

But defender Cabango will be part of the squad making the journey to south Yorkshire following his successful outing for the under-21s last weekend.

“Ben is back in so he will be involved,” confirmed Swans boss Martin.

“I have to say, he is in brilliant shape. He has obviously lacked a bit of game time during pre-season but he is more than ready.

“Joe is going to be a little bit longer. He could have had him involved, but we don’t want to risk it as it could be a bit early for him.

“He has been great with the group since returning to the club. He leaves everything out there whether that’s in the gym or on the training pitch.

“He is always 100 per cent present and focused on what he is doing, and that is why it was so important to bring him back to the club.

“He will be brilliant for our young players, but we just need to be patient. We hope he will be with us next week.”

Liam Walsh is a long-term absentee with an Achilles injury, while summer signings Harry Darling, Nathan Wood and Matty Sorinola are all in contention to make their Swansea debuts.