Conor Gallagher aiming to build on winning start
Conor Gallagher is looking forward to creating more memorable moments under Steve Cooper after making a big impression on his Swansea City debut.
The midfielder played a pivotal role in the Swans’ 2-1 victory over Wigan Athletic on Saturday, with Gallagher – who joined from Chelsea just three days earlier - setting up fellow loanee Rhian Brewster for the equaliser.
Andre Ayew went on to net the winner as the Swans moved into the Championship play-off spots despite falling behind at the Liberty.
And after marking his debut with an assist, Gallagher – who was part of Cooper’s England Under-17s World Cup-winning squad in 2017 – is hoping to build on his good start.
“I only arrived on Wednesday so to go straight into the team gives me a lot of confidence,” he said. “I love playing games and I’m going to give my all every time I’m on the pitch.
“I want to be able to assist and score goals and help the team. Getting an assist in my first game is a good start.
“I know Rhian’s game very well and he knows mine, so I think we’re going to link up well between now and the end of the season.
“I’m just excited to play more games now.
“I feel like I’ve settled in well. The players are all nice and the training is to a very good standard. I’m still getting used to it, but it’s good.
“I’ve got some good memories of working with Steve so, hopefully, we can make a few more.”
Saturday’s victory completed a league double over the Latics, with Cooper’s side now occupying the final play-off spot – a point above seventh-placed Millwall – with 18 games remaining.
They had to come from behind to claim a 12th league win of the campaign after Nathan Byrne had given Wigan an early lead.
But Gallagher’s threaded pass into the box set up Brewster, who found the bottom corner to level just three minutes later.
Top-scorer Ayew completed the comeback with just over 20 minutes left as he intelligently backheeled Bersant Celina’s low cross into the net for his 12th goal of the season.
And Gallagher was delighted to mark his debut with an assist and three points.
"I’m very happy with the win,” he said. “It was a good performance and I was pleased to get an assist for Rhian’s goal.
“I wasn’t worried when we went 1-0 down, I was confident we could get a goal back and we did straightaway.
“I loved everything about it. The fans were incredible; even when we went 1-0 down. I’m just looking forward to helping the team even more.”
