Preview | Fulham U23s v Swansea City U23s

22nd November
Cameron Toshack 16x9

Swansea City Under-23s coach Cameron Toshack says it is important that the development side continue to be competitive in today’s Premier League 2 Division Two showdown with Fulham (7pm).

Supporters are advised that the match will not be available to view on swanseacity.com or our official Facebook page.

The young Swans travel to Motspur Park aiming to end a run of four consecutive defeats in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Steve Cooper confirmed that Aldo Kalulu will enjoy his first action in three months as he steps up his return from injury.

Despite the recent results, a youthful development side have produced encouraging performances, while several first and second-year scholars have been handed their first opportunities at this level.

And Toshack insists that must be taken into consideration ahead of facing the Cottagers, who they could leapfrog in the table with victory this evening.

“It’s important that we continue to be competitive. With the young group that we now have, it’s important in their learning that they try to strive for consistency,” he said.

“The average age of the squad is now under 18-and-a-half. That’s something everybody needs to take into consideration but, at the same time, we challenge our players to be winners.

“They deserve credit because they’ve made a lot of progress since the start of the season.

“They have shown that they’re capable of producing good performances, and today will provide another opportunity for them to show where they’re at.

“In recent games, the boys have also had more experienced players drop in for the opposition. They must see that as a real positive. 

“It’s a situation they’re not necessarily familiar with, but it’s certainly a step in the right direction regarding their learning.”

Liam Cullen 16x9

Fresh from their exploits with Wales at under-21 level, the likes of Jack Evans, Liam Cullen and Brandon Cooper are likely to return to the fold for the under-23s.

All featured in Tuesday’s 1-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in a crucial European Championship qualifier.

Elsewhere in a hugely successful international break for the Swans with Wales, Connor Roberts helped the senior side qualify for Euro 2020 with wins over Azerbaijan and Hungary, while Lewis Webb and Cameron Evans were part of the under-19s side that progressed to the elite round of the European Championship.

“We’re really pleased to welcome back the Welsh internationals from their recent games. They have all done really well.” Toshack added.

“Our group is always very proud when our players go away on international duty and experience the challenges it brings.

“It provides another huge positive for us.”