Toshack encourages young Swans

Cameron Toshack has called on Swansea City Under-21s to rise to the occasion when they host Bristol Rovers in the second round of the Checkatrade Trophy on Wednesday (7.45pm).

The young Swans, who finished top of Southern Group G after impressive victories over League One sides AFC Wimbledon and Charlton Athletic, welcome another third-tier outfit to the Liberty Stadium in the first knockout round of the competition. 

They have continued their proud run of progressing through the group stages every year since first entering the competition in 2016. 

Current first-team regulars like Oli McBurnie, Joe Rodon and Daniel James have all played starring roles for the Swans in this competition, and Toshack has urged the development squad to use that as inspiration ahead of the Rovers tie.

“A lot of these young men have not played at this level at the Liberty before,” the under-23s coach said. 

“Therefore the whole experience of preparation, executing a plan, reacting to certain moments in the game and, hopefully, coming through victorious will be a very good learning curve for them.

“At the same time, it is important for them to understand that league clubs look at these games with a view to potential moves in January.

“I have seen the way the Checkatrade Trophy has helped a lot of our younger players who are now in the first team.

“The experiences they had in this competition gave them the confidence to go and do what they are currently doing in the Championship.”

Standing in the way of the young Swans are Bristol Rovers, who finished second in Group D after wins over Yeovil Town and West Ham United Under-21s.

Toshack knows his side can expect a tough clash with Darrell Clarke’s men, but insists they are excited about the occasion.

“Bristol Rovers are another league team will be looking to make sure they give a very good account of themselves,” he added.

“I am certain they will come here with plenty of experience and want to win the game.

“They will provide another stern test for us, but we have to approach every cup competition with confidence and we are certainly looking forward to the game.”