Neil Taylor sets his 'goals' for Swansea City

After becoming a surprise goalscorer at Euro 2016, Neil Taylor aims to break his duck for Swansea City this season.

This summer, Taylor was part of Wales' successful campaign in France which saw Chris Coleman's reach the semi-final of the tournament.

Although they eventually went out to eventual winners Portugal, Wales emerged with huge credit for going within one victory of reaching the final.

Taylor, too, returned home from France with plaudits still ringing in his ears.

A first for Wales fans, indeed Swans supporters, came in the group stage against Russia when the left-back completed a lung-busting length-of-the-field sprint before latching onto a loose ball and firing home at the second attempt.

A first goal for Wales in 31 appearances. His first for 208 games.

Yet, during 166 games in a six-year spell with the Swans, Taylor is yet to find the net.

It is a stat he would love to amend, particularly after his strike at the Euros.

"For me to score at the Euros was a special feeling. It was an important goal for us too," said Taylor, who hadn't scored since firing home a volley in his final game for Wrexham at Grays Athletic in a non-league fixture in 2010.

"I've put pressure on myself to score for Swansea as I've not got a goal yet since I joined!"

Fresh from his heroics in Frances, Taylor reported back for club duty this week, where his team-mates were quick to make the most of his treasured goal.

But now focus turns to the new campaign, with the Swans getting ready for a sixth Premier League adventure.

Francesco Guidolin's side travel to newly-promoted Burnley on the opening day of the season, before hosting play-off winners Hull City a week later.

Having won two and drawn two of their opening games last season, Taylor knows the importance of getting off to a good start in the league.

"A good start is crucial in the Premier League - as well as a strong finish - if you are to have a successful season," said the 27-year-old.

"We got to a flying start last season, and we finished very strongly too.

"It's a clean slate for everybody and we have to prove ourselves again.

"The manager has got a pre-season under his belt with the lads, so he will feel he has the team where he wants it to be.

"Hopefully, come Burnley, we will be ready.

"Burnley and Hull will be looking to do the same thing as last season - winning games.

"We've been in this league long enough to know how difficult it is, and it has got more difficult every year. This season will be no exception.

"It's an exciting year, particularly with what Leicester achieved last season, and with the players and coaches that are in the division.

"Swansea City are part of that, and we have to enjoy it again."

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