Phil SumblerFinley Burns made his senior league debut against Bristol City at the Swansea.com stadium yesterday afternoon, playing 75 minutes in the Swans side that bounced back from being a goal down at half time to secure a 3-1 victory.
Burns was handed his chance due to an injury to Kyle Naughton and suspension of Ryan Bennett and took his place amongst a three man defensive line that included Ben Cabango and Ryan Manning.
And the young defender – signed in the last couple of days of the transfer window – never looked out of place as he put in a performance that is worthy of his lengthy contract at the Ethiad Stadium.
The performance drew the plaudits you would expect from the manager who was quick to praise the player for his part in what was a very important win for the Swans.
“I thought he was great. I thought he showed what is going to come,” Martin told the club’s official website.
“The change wasn’t anything to do with his performance, it was about him fatiguing in his first Championship game with the adrenaline and the energy.
“I was really pleased with Fin. He has come in and really impressed everyone and I think for a debut in this league, his mentality, his quality, his willingness to defend and compete was pleasing.
“We have got a really exciting prospect on our hands and now it is up to us to develop him and make sure he understands every detail.
“He is fitting in so well into the squad as a character, which is so important.
“We are really, really happy with him and hopefully today will give him a springboard to really kick on from.”
