Ben Lloyd | I have to thank everyone who has got me here, to make my debut was very special

Ben Lloyd paid heartfelt thanks to his family and the academy staff who have aided his development, after the boyhood Swansea City fan made his senior debut in the 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers.

The 19-year-old came off the bench during the closing stages of the Boxing Day victory, having first joined the club at under-12 level.

A long-time season ticket holder, Lloyd’s family were in attendance to see him make his Swans bow.

And Lloyd, who famously scored a goal seconds after coming off the bench in a pre-season friendly against Forest Green Rovers in the summer of 2021, could not hide his delight or emotions at making the debut for the club he has supported all his lift.

“It's great feeling to get on the pitch. I can't describe it really,” he said.

“Seeing all my family up there in the stands, especially after the game clapping, it’s such a surreal moment. It’s something I’ve worked so hard for ever since I started playing football.

“I want to say a big thanks to everyone who has got me here. My family have dedicated so many hours, and so many of the staff at the academy have helped me, to finally get on the pitch… it’s credit to them for where I am today.

“To play for your boyhood club, playing in front of the Swans fans having been a Swans fan all my life. It’s crazy. I just cannot stop smiling.

“It’s the best feeling in the world and hopefully I can do it again and again for many years to come. Playing for this club is just so special to me and these are the reasons you play football.”

And Lloyd revealed the final words of encouragement he received from head coach Luke Williams as he prepared to go on to make his bow.

“When I was waiting I was just telling myself to try not to smile or look too excited,” grinned the midfielder.

“But the gaffer said to me that it’s like any other game. It’s the same two goal posts, the same white lines, and that I was in that position because I am good enough. It gave me so much confidence to go on and just play.

“I am grateful for that and for all the coaches, I’ve really enjoyed with the under-21s this season and hopefully I can make sure there are more days like this ahead.”