Matt Grimes | Outstanding Ollie Cooper like a new signing

Matt Grimes has praised the impact of Swansea City academy product Ollie Cooper as the midfielder enjoys a breakthrough season at Championship level.

The 22-year-old scored the opening goal in the Swans’ 2-0 win over Cardiff City in Sunday’s south Wales derby – his third goal in four games.

It’s been a whirlwind few months for the young midfielder who only made his first league start for the Swans on August 31, on the back of a successful loan spell with Newport County in League Two last term.

Since then, he has become a key member of Russell Martin’s team, starting seven of the subsequent eight fixtures to coincide with a fine run of form for the Swans.

He scored his first league goal of the season against Sunderland in early October and has gone on to score in three consecutive home matches.

And Grimes praised the impact the academy product has made, and the manner in which he prepared himself for the new campaign.

“Honestly, Ollie has been like a new signing for us,” said Grimes.

"He’s come back, put the hard yards in pre-season and took his opportunity in the game against Oxford in the League Cup.

"He’s a fantastic player and a good young lad and I don’t think we’ve seen the best of him.

“He’s been absolutely incredible, his work ethic, his willingness to learn and what he does for the team has been outstanding.

“He’s carrying a goal threat now which is brilliant for the lads. I can’t say enough kind words about him to be honest.

“Being a young lad, the south Wales derby are the kinds of game you want to play in being a Swansea fan growing up. He’s written his name into history.”