Sammy Henia-Kamau relishing perfect start at Swansea City

Swansea City Under-18s striker Sammy Henia-Kamau says he is relishing life at Swansea City after grabbing a hat-trick in his first competitive start for the club against Cardiff City.

The 17-year-old joined the club's academy ranks in July, after previously being with Jersey Bulls FC. where he won the 2022 Sid Guy award, a prize given for most outstanding player at the Jersey Football Association Centre of Excellence.

Having been handed a starting role in the Professional Development League Cup clash with the Bluebirds, Henia-Kamau gave the hosts an early lead at Landore, before Dan Ola levelled for the visitors.

But Jack Fanning headed home to put the Swans back in front once again, before Henia-Kamau won and converted a penalty to ensure the Swans were two goals to the good before the break.

Cardiff pulled another goal back after Troy Perrett converted a spot-kick for the Bluebirds.

But Henia-Kamau made sure of the win as he completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute, drilling home after a superb run down the right flank.

The youngster is enjoying his football at Swansea City, and is eyeing up more important contributions for the team in the season ahead.

"I'm so happy, I felt amazing coming off that pitch at full-time. I've been training hard all week and I earned that start, and hopefully these opportunities come week-by-week now," he said. 

"It was more of a relief to get that first goal, same with any striker you just want to get that first goal out of the way. After the second, I knew I could keep going.

"The third came, and I was buzzing. Celebrating with the boys was amazing, they've all been top since I've joined, we all support each other.

"I love it here, I really feel at home and that's down to the coaches, the boys and everyone who works here. They've really welcomed me.

"It is a lot different to where I have come from, but that's what's good because then it's a challenge, and that's how you learn. I love the way we play here.

"I want to keep this momentum going now, and hopefully score many more goals."