Daniel Williams thrilled to continue Swansea City journey

When Daniel Williams joined Swansea City at the age of eight, he admits it would have taken a feat of imagination to envisage becoming a professional player.

However, fast forward a decade and that exact outcome has become a reality.

The 18-year-old, whose father Nigel was also a scholar with the Swans, has put pen to paper on a one-year professional deal and is thrilled to have extended his stay in SA1.

“I’m absolutely delighted. I’m really chuffed to get it all signed and sealed,” he said.

“I started to get nervous towards the end of last season, so it was a relief to be offered a new deal.

“I joined the club aged eight and could never have envisaged turning professional. It’s mad to think that I have come all the way through the ranks.

“I can’t wait to get going.”

Williams, who played 20 times for the Swans’ under-18s in Premier League South last term, will link up with the under-23s this season.

The midfielder enjoyed a taste of development football during the 2018-19 campaign – making three appearances in all competitions including the young Swans’ away clash with Manchester City in Premier League 2.

He believes that experience will stand him in good stead as he looks to kick on this term, and his hopes of further progress have been boosted following the arrival of head coach Steve Cooper.

“As a scholar, it was great to be given opportunities last season,” he added.

“It’s an advantage for me because I now know what’s to come and what is expected. 

“Hopefully, there are more chances to come this year. We had a meeting with the gaffer and it seems like he will give opportunities to younger players, which gives us a lot of hope.

“I just want to take any opportunity that I get – whether that is playing for the under-23s or training with the first team.”