'We can help youngsters develop'

Wayne Routledge believes Swansea City’s wise men can help the club’s young guns flourish under Graham Potter.

The winger made just his third start of the campaign – his fourth appearance in total – at Brentford last weekend and played a key role in the Swans' 3-2 victory.

Routledge netted his first goal of the season inside 33 seconds at Griffin Park and then had a big hand in the Swans' third of the afternoon, two moments which capped off a fine individual display.

While some of the younger members of Potter’s squad have caught the eye this season, an added sprinkling of experience helped the Swans over the line at Brentford, with the recalled Nathan Dyer also playing his part.

And the long-serving Routledge reckons the Swans' senior pros can contribute to the development of Potter's numerous youngsters.

“We have a really good nucleus of young players who can go on and make big careers for themselves. At the same time players like myself and Nathan feel we can help them along,” said Routledge, who opened the scoring after just 25 seconds at Brentford.

“It is nice to show we can help them and hopefully we can do that going forward.

“We are here to help Swansea City. The club has given us a lot and we just want to help and contribute the best way we can.

“This club means a lot to me. I have been at many clubs in my career but this club has given me a lot including a family and a platform to play football and it has worked hand-in-hand.

“I just want to contribute and give as much as I can for the club."