Patience a virtue for ‘relieved’ Rio Campbell

Rio Campbell has revealed his sheer relief after finally netting his long-awaited first Swansea City goal last weekend.

The winger, who joined the Swans following his departure from Watford in January 2020, broke his duck for the club in the under-18s’ 3-1 win over Queens Park Rangers.

Receiving the ball on the right flank, Campbell cut inside before firing a low shot in off the far post to seal the points for the young Swans at Landore.

Although providing a constant threat down the wing with his electric pace and trickery, the 18-year-old has had to be patient for his goal to arrive in SA1, but was thrilled to see his persistence pay dividends.

This weekend sees the ex-Chelsea and Tottenham youngster return to another of his former sides in Watford, where he spent just under a year and appeared as a late substitute in the under-18s’ FA Youth Cup semi-final clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

Campbell is hopeful he can maintain his high levels of performance with the Swans, and that his first goal will pave the way for more to follow as the campaign goes on.

“It’s a relief really. As a forward player, you always push to score goals,” he said.

“My main role in the team is to provide goals and assists, so to get my first goal is great.

“I knew I just had to be patient. Things aren’t always going to go your way. 

“But as long as you have a positive mindset, it will happen for you eventually.

“You must keep working hard and keep your mind focused and on the right track.

"I'm looking forward to going back to Watford. They provided a big step in my development.

“Hopefully, I can keep my standards high and there are many more goals to come over the rest of the season.”