Academy scholar Arthur Parker reflects on his first month at Swansea City

Swansea City Under-18s' scholar Arthur Parker reflects on his first month in SA1, after being rewarded with a scholarship following a trial in August.

The 16-year-old spent nine years at Fulham after joining the west London club at under-eight level. 

Defender Parker made his competitive debut for the Swans age-grade side in the thrilling 3-3 draw against Burnley after coming on as a substitute, and has since featured in their game against Cardiff City.

“My time at Fulham was good and it was great for my development. My time there definitely helped me with the attributes I have now, it gave me my strengths and made me the player I am today," he said.

“I feel like I’ve fitted in well. I get on with all the lads and they have been so welcoming since I arrived. 

“The style of play is perfect for me; I like playing it out from the back and getting the ball forward. I’m getting to know the identity of the club and team. 

“I did a week trial training with the under-18s, and then I found out I had been offered a scholarship while I was on holiday, and I was delighted.

"Training has been good and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season to show what I can do.

“My first start was against Cardiff. It was a good game, which we should have won and should have scored many goals. But, overall it was a good experience. 

“In the long term, I would like to push into the under-21s and the first team, which is the goal of any academy player, really. I’ve just got to work hard to get there.

"My host family have been really good, and I'm loving life in Swansea so far."