Shephard signs new Swans contract
5th January
Young defender Liam Shephard has signed a new two-and-a-half year deal at Swansea City.
The 20-year-old right-back is yet to make a first-team appearance, although he has been an unused substitute on six occasions this season.
The Pentre-born product has been ever-present in the club's Under-21s side, who are currently top of Professional Development League Two South.
Shephard, whose first pro contract was due to expire this summer, was delighted to commit his future to the club.
"It was a bit of relief for me as my contract was up at the end of the season, so I'm delighted to sign a new deal," said Shephard, who has captained the U21s to six consecutive wins. "The length of the deal allows me to really concentrate on attempting to work my way up at the club.
"I've worked really hard to get this far, but now it's about continuing to work hard, learn as much as I can and hopefully I can then break into the first-team plans.
"I've learned a lot from training alongside the senior players and working with the manager, who has given young players at the club a chance if they show the right work-rate and attitude.
"Being involved in the first team's matchday squad has been a brilliant experience. It has given me hope of making the next step up at the club - and that's playing for the first team.
"Having seen a number of young players at the club achieve that it gives me plenty of hope, although I realise it will be a tough challenge."
