Redemption for hat-trick hero Oli Cooper

Oli Cooper was pleased to redeem himself after his hat-trick helped Swansea City Under-23s to a comprehensive victory over Porto in the Premier League International Cup.

The winger bagged his first treble for the development side as they romped to a thumping 5-1 success over the two-time winners of the competition at Landore.

For Cooper, it was the perfect way to respond after missing a gilt-edged opportunity in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Sunderland in Premier League 2 Division 2.

The 19-year-old, who has been an ever-present for the under-23s so far this season, took his tally for the campaign to four goals – already matching his total for the entire 2018-19 campaign.

It took until November for him to break his duck last term, but he feels that playing regularly has been key to him hitting the ground running this year.

“It’s still pretty hard to believe, to be honest,” he smiled.

“To score a hat-trick really means a lot to me. I could have scored a few more as well.

“I just wanted to redeem myself and not let that miss against Sunderland hang over my head for too long. But I can put that to one side now instead of dwelling on it.

“I’ve hit the ground running from the off this season. I wanted to be in from start and I’ve played every minute so far, whereas I was in and out of the team last year.”

Cooper also praised the impact of fellow winger Jordon Garrick on the Porto victory.

The 21-year-old provided two assists – including the first of Cooper’s goals – and was a constant threat down the right wing with his sheer pace and power.

“It certainly helps when you have someone like Jordon in your team,” he added.

“You certainly know he’s going to be getting down the wing and delivering balls into the box.

“I just had to make sure I was at the back post ready for them.”