Ollie Cooper | When I get on the pitch, I want to show what I can do

Ollie Cooper relished a dream first home league start for Swansea City, contributing the assist in a 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers and being serenaded by the Jack Army.

The Swans claimed a first home win of the season thanks to a first-half goal by Joel Piroe, with Cooper providing the vital final pass into the strikers after winning the ball high up the pitch.

It was Cooper’s second consecutive start for the Swans following an impressive performance against Stoke City in midweek, and the Jack Army gave him a great reception when he was substituted late on.

“It’s a massive three points,” said the academy product.

“We were disappointed not to get the three points on Wednesday night.

“I think at times the performance wasn’t quite there, but we gave everything out there on the pitch and we got the three points and that’s all that matters.

“Hopefully this is the start now and this is the platform for us to kick on. Wednesday was a good performance, this was a different kind of performance. Hopefully we keep going and this is the start of a good run.”

Joining Swansea’s academy at under-12 level, the midfielder has had to be patient for his opportunity.

Progressing through the age groups and spending a season on loan at Newport County in Sky Bet League Two last term has prepared the 22-year-old for a chance in the Championship, and he is taking the opportunity with both hands.

“It was amazing finally being out there from the first whistle and playing in front of all the fans, hearing them chant your name – it’s amazing,” he added.

“It’s something I’ve been looking forward to for ages and it’s finally here. I just want to keep playing in front of the fans. It’s something I’ve been looking forward to for such a long, long time.

“I was in and around the squad the season before last and you just want to get out there and play football in front of the home fans – I finally managed to do it and I enjoyed every minute of it.

“The loan last season was massive for me personally. Not just in game management, but understanding the game and everything. It was a really important step for me to allow me to come back and hit the ground running which is what I feel I’ve done so far.

“I want to play in this team, I want to play for the gaffer and when I get on the pitch I want to show what I can do and now I’m being given the opportunity.

“Luckily today I managed to get an assist. I probably should have scored one but we won’t talk about that. We’ll focus on the assist!”