Richards expects a tough challenge

Gary Richards wants Swansea City Under-23s to embrace the challenge Liverpool will bring in their opening Premier League 2 Division 1 fixture on Friday (7pm).

The young Swans kick off their debut season in the top flight of development football at home to the Reds at Landore.

The U23s dominated division 2 last season, winning 17 of their 22 games to lift the title and gain promotion.

Following that success, Richards has urged his players to build on last season’s achievements and compete against some of best young sides in the country. 

“It is important we look to pick up from where we left off,” Richards said.

“We have earned this opportunity to compete in the top flight of development football and are eager to show what we can do this season.

“We need to embrace the chance we have and make the most of the opportunities we get against sides like Liverpool.

“After a good pre-season against three senior sides and two strong academy ones – we must show we are prepared and ready to challenge and be consistently competitive.

“That challenge starts tomorrow. Liverpool will be a tough start to life in division 1, but we must embrace it because this level can only help develop our players.”