Richards delighted for young Swans

​​​​​​​Gary Richards is delighted to see six development squad players offered new deals at Swansea City.

Under-23s player of the season George Byers has been offered fresh terms alongside Kenji Gorre, Aaron Lewis, Jack Evans, Keiran Evans and Botti Biabi.

The six young Swans played more than 100 games between them as their team claimed an impressive fourth-place finish in their first season in Premier League 2 Division 1.

And under-23s coach Richards believes they are all players who have the ability to play senior football.

“We are pleased for all of them,” he said.

“This group have enjoyed a good season in development football and these players have had a big impact having played a number of games.

“They all played a big part in how well we did and after the progress they have made this season, I hope to see these players push on and gain first-team experience.

“If they can break into the first-team squad next season, it will be up to them to show they can play at that level.”

Richards also praised the progress being made at academy level, with a further six Swans youngsters offered the opportunity to sign their first professional deals.

Defenders Ben Cabango and Matthew Blake stepped up to feature a number of times for the development squad this season, and Richards is looking forward to working with the new crop of players next term.

Joe Lewis, Cameron Berry, Tom Price and Oliver Cooper have also been offered professional deals.

“We are excited to work with these six who have come through the academy process,” Richards added.

“Three have already played at under-23 level and we hope that all will continue their progress and show they can play at a higher level next season.

“We were very pleased with the progress that Matthew Blake and Ben Cabango made with the team this season.

“Both showed that when given an opportunity, they were able to play at a higher level.”