Liam Cullen | Strong words inspired U23s' response

Liam Cullen has revealed how strong words from the coaching staff served as inspiration for Swansea City’s Under-23s in their impressive Premier League International Cup draw against PSV Eindhoven.

Cullen scored a wonderful equaliser to ensure a share of the spoils for the young Swans, who produced a brilliant performance in the opening match of Group D at Landore.

It marked a dramatic change of fortunes for the development side, just three days after their humbling 5-0 defeat by Reading in Premier League 2 Division 2.

Cullen admitted the consequences of the setback increased he and his team-mates’ determination to put things right.

And having responded in such positive fashion, the forward is hopeful the development side have set a benchmark with their performance levels - one which they must continue to strive towards.

“Reading was a bad day for us, and we all hold our hands up to that – the performance wasn’t there,” he said.

“The coaches made it clear that we had to improve, and that our standards and their expectations of us are way higher than we showed.

“Last night was a great chance for us to bounce back against a very good team in PSV.

“We did that and are very pleased to do so. Although, given the way we finished the game, the boys were a bit disappointed not to win. 

“That shows just how far we’ve come in such a short space of time, but it’s a good starting point for us.

“We’ve set the benchmark and don’t really want to perform below that anymore.

“So long as we stay there, keep building and our results keep improving, that’s all we care about.”