Steve Cooper challenges Swansea City youngsters

Swansea City head coach Steve Cooper has challenged the club's young players to make full use of their exposure to the first-team environment and force their way into his plans for the new campaign.

Cooper took six players who had featured regularly for the under-23s last term to Spain for the Swans' week-long pre-season training camp.

Brandon Cooper (19), Joe Lewis (19), Ben Cabango (19), Liam Cullen (20), Jack Evans (21) and Jordon Garrick (20) all made the travelling party, and youth was also given its head in the weekend win at Crawley.

Brandon Cooper, Cullen and Evans all got around half-an-hour under their belts at the People's Pension Stadium, while goalkeeper Steve Benda played 45 minutes.

The Swans boss will not be shy about handing out further chances, and hopes to see players take the chance to follow the likes of Joe Rodon and Connor Roberts off the academy production line and into regular senior action.

"The lads from the under-23s have done very well with us. We have given them opportunities and will continue to do so," said Cooper ahead of tonight's friendly against Yeovil at Huish Park (7.45pm).

"The ones who came out to Spain gave a very good account of themselves, but the opportunity doesn’t stop there.

"Anyone who is really pushing strong will come into the frame. We will keep working with the academy to identify players who are ready to step up.

"It’s one thing giving a youngster an opportunity, but it’s up to them to take it.

"Hopefully we can see more examples like Joe Rodon and George Byers progressing into the first team."

The Swans' clash with Yeovil will be shown live HERE from approximately 7.45pm.

Supporters can also watch via the new live tab on the official Swans App, or the club's official Facebook page.