Arthur Parker ready to push on after professional deal

Arthur Parker is determined to keep pushing and working for more opportunities at Swansea City having signed his first professional contract at the club.

The former Fulham youth player, who spent nine years with the Cottagers, has put pen to paper to extend his stay in SA1 until June 2026.

The 18-year-old joined Swansea City in the summer of 2021, following a successful trial period and linked up with the under-18s as a first-year scholar. 

Now, with preparations for the 2024-25 season under way, the youngster, who hails from London, is looking to impress in his maiden campaign for Anthony Wright's under-21s' squad.

"It's such an amazing feeling, not just signing my first professional deal but also securing another two years at the club," said Parker.

"I've had an amazing time since joining, and I've definitely improved myself.

"Now I've got the deal, I want to prove myself even more, have a good season with the under-21s and, hopefully, push for some training with the first team.

"When I was a first-year scholar, I had some sessions with the first team, and it was a surreal experience in terms of pace and intensity, I learned a lot from those sessions."

While Parker will make the full-time step up to under-21 level this season, he did make several appearances for the development side last term, including his full debut in the age-grade side's 2-1 away victory over Colchester United in February.

He is determined to kick on and make the most of his new deal, starting with Sunday's Nathaniel MG Cup clash at Baglan.

"I'm looking forward to my first full season with the under-21s, and we start with the Nathaniel MG Cup again, a tournament I also played in last year," he added.

"The under-21s are one step away from the first team, and that's how I always think about it, that I'm so close and it's something in my reach."