Kees' debut delight

Kees de Boer felt he got a taste of what’s to come as the teenager made his debut for Swansea City’s Under-23s during Friday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

The 17-year-old, who signed from Ajax’s academy last summer, earned his first chance with the development side in Premier League 2 after playing 16 games for the under-18s this campaign.

The promising Dutch midfielder signed a three-year deal after arriving at the Swans in August and admits he feels ready for the challenge at a higher level.

“I was very happy to make my debut,” de Boer said.

“It is more of a challenge at under-23s level, but I felt more comfortable on the ball. It was a good game, but we were disappointed not to get the win.

“I have found the tempo much higher than in Dutch academy football. I’ve had to work hard to get up to speed, but I feel I have grown as a player and that I am continuing to develop my game.

“I am hoping to get more minutes at this level before the end of the season. I feel I have made a decent start, but I want there to be more.

“Friday’s game gave me a good taste of what is to come next season and I have to continue to prepare myself for that step.”