Wing-backs in fine fettle for Swansea City boss Cooper

14th September
First team
Preston (A) Bidwell

Steve Cooper has praised the work-rate and quality of Swansea City’s wing-backs after Jake Bidwell and Connor Roberts caught the eye in Saturday’s win at Preston.

It was Bidwell who teed up the only goal of the game for Morgan Gibbs-White at Deepdale, while the left-sided defender also had a goal of his own ruled out for offside in a typically workaholic display.

Roberts – back in the side after his international exploits with Wales – also brought no shortage of energy on the right-hand side, and their displays pleased head coach Cooper as the pair picked up where they had left off at the end of last season.

He was fulsome in his praise of their displays, and is particularly pleased to see Bidwell’s efforts getting deserved recognition.

“Both wing-backs – Connor and Jake – were excellent,” said the Swansea boss.

Preston (A) Roberts

“We had Jake getting the assist for the goal and the disallowed goal. They can both give you that, but this was probably Jake’s day on that front. We’re very happy with them both.

“Whatever the circumstance or situation, Jake will keep doing the right things and you know what you’re going to get from him. I don’t think that will ever change.

“For me, his biggest asset is his mentality. If the season goes his way, he’s going to have made 400 appearances in league football, which is no mean feat considering he’s still only 27.

“I’m glad he got the recognition that he did at the end of last season because I cannot think of a player that worked harder at his profession. We love him with us.

“He’s a really good egg, who does what it says on the tin and more. I’m glad that everyone is seeing his true worth.”

Cooper was also left impressed by Roberts’ energy levels, as he showed no sign of any weariness despite starting both of Wales’ Nations League games during the international break.

Connor Roberts Wales

“I think Connor is in a really good place as well. We’ve got to work hard to try to keep them featuring in the team,” added Cooper.

“Connor did well for Wales during the international week and since lockdown, I think he was as good as anybody in the team.

“He’s played the best part of two 90 minutes for Wales and another game on Saturday, and he could probably still run now.

“Long may it continue for both of them.”