Mike's captaincy pride

Mike van der Hoorn has spoken of the huge pride he feels over captaining Swansea City.

The centre-back has worn the armband in the absence of fellow Dutchman Leroy Fer, with van der Hoorn proving an influential figure within the team.

His new role reflects the significant strides made by van der Hoorn following his switch to the Liberty in 2016.

In his first season in SA1 after arriving from Ajax, the 25-year-old made just 11 appearances as he found game-time hard to come by.

The following season ended in relegation for the Swans, but it proved far more fruitful for van der Hoorn, who featured 33 times.

Now, in van der Hoorn's third season, Graham Potter has turned to him as a worthy back-up in Fer’s absence through injury this term.

“It’s been a big honour captaining the team,” he said.

“When I think how far I’ve come since I joined the club, I am very proud to wear the armband.

“In my first year it wasn’t easy for me because I didn’t play much.

“My second year was better as I started to break into the team, and this season I am playing regularly and have captained the team when Leroy isn’t included.

“It’s enjoyable and I think the lads appreciate me as captain. I am still learning – I don’t do everything perfectly – as I haven’t been captain since I was playing for the under-17s at Utrecht.

“I feel more mature with the role I have. Leroy is the captain and everyone respects him. He has great experience of playing in the Premier League and in the World Cup, but I’m always happy to step in if he’s not available.

“I am not someone who shouts and screams in the changing room, I like to lead by example on the pitch.

“And if I am needed to be captain again I will look forward to having that honour.”