'We've shown our spirit'

Oli McBurnie believes Swansea City’s character in the opening-day win at Sheffield United was an early indicator of team spirit shining through.

Goals from McBurnie and sub Yan Dhanda – who struck with his first touch – earned three points for Graham Potter in his first game in charge.

McBurnie levelled at Bramall Lane while Dhanda marked his debut in perfect fashion by firing home the winner from close range.

But McBurnie believes the character shown by Potter’s men after falling behind to George Baldock’s goal just past the hour mark was a huge plus.

“It’s a big season for us, so to get off to a winning start – particularly after going behind – is a major positive,” said the Scottish international.

“There have been a lot of players leaving the club and a few coming in. It’s been a big turnaround in players, but the manager and his staff have quickly built the team spirit that we have.

“You could see that in our performance. We didn’t get off to a good start, and even though we went behind we kept fighting – we didn’t let our heads drop.

“It was the first time we had played competitively as a team but we played some beautiful football and we had the confidence in each other to get three points.

“That’s a really positive thing for us as a squad.”

McBurnie’s goal sparked wild celebrations in the away end, while Dhanda’s winner saw further joyous scenes among the 1,000-strong Jack Army.

“Scoring goals and winning games – there’s no feeling like it,” added McBurnie.

“To celebrate with the fans was unbelievable. I may have got a bit carried away with the celebration, but it meant so much to me.

“I was delighted for Yan too. He has done well in pre-season. The boys have been impressed with him while the manager realised what he could offer this team.

“And he made the perfect impact on his debut. Scoring the winner – you can’t ask for much more than that!”