'I am proud of the players'

Leon Britton paid tribute to Swansea City’s players after his first game as caretaker boss ended in a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace.

Britton’s men were staring at defeat after Palace went ahead on 59 minutes through a Luka Milivojevic penalty.

But the Swans fought back and found a response thanks to a moment of magic from substitute Jordan Ayew.

The Ghana star tricked his way into space and then unleashed a fierce 20-yard drive which arrowed into the corner of the net.

The Swans remain bottom of the Premier League and four points adrift of safety at the midway point of the season.

But they can take heart from the fightback which saw them avoid defeat for only the third time in their last 11 top-flight games.

“I was really pleased with our performance,” Britton said.

“We started very well, passing the ball with good tempo, and the only disappointing thing was that we didn’t create more chances to take the lead.

“In the last 20 minutes of the first half we got a bit sloppy and they got some chances on the break from our sloppy passing.

“But the character we showed after going 1-0 down was brilliant. I am very proud of the effort the players have given me, not just today but over the last couple of days.”

As well as the players, Britton saluted the Jack Army for sticking with their team even after Palace had gone in front.

“It’s been difficult for us when we have gone behind this season,” he added.

“But the fans were right behind us today even after we conceded.

“They were great. They kept going and gave the players a lift, and they got their reward with a fantastic goal from Jordan.

“We didn’t settle for a draw. We kept pushing for another one after that and I thought we looked the most likely team to score.”