Luke Williams praises "thoroughbred" Kyle Naughton

27th February
First team
Kyle Naughton Sunderland

Swansea City head coach Luke Williams has heaped praise on “thoroughbred” Kyle Naughton after the defender reached a special landmark during the 2-1 victory at Sunderland.

The win on Wearside was Naughton’s 300th appearance for the Swans, having joined the club from Tottenham Hotspur in 2015.

Naughton, 35, has featured regularly since Williams’ appointment as head coach in January, and has been in fine form.

Williams was delighted with his performance against the Black Cats, highlighting Naughton’s technical ability and reading of the game as vital ingredients for the Swans.

"He's a thoroughbred. That's why he played in the Premier League because there's no free ticket, you have to have the talent and you have to work hard,” said Williams.

“He's an athletic boy. His brain is so good that he can play without getting into too many difficult situations.

“What a player he is. He is so gifted. He makes football look simple at times. We will play on tough pitches, or against aggressive opposition, but he is so calm and has so much quality. He sees things that other players wouldn’t be able to see.

“I just love talking about him because he is a great guy and a great player. Getting to 300 appearances is a tremendous achievement and what a servant he has been for this club.”