Steve Cooper praises exciting Aldo Kalulu showing

Steve Cooper believes Aldo Kalulu has the potential to make an impact for Swansea City over the closing weeks of the season, and end his loan spell on a high.

The French winger was handed a first league start since August for Saturday’s clash with Huddersfield, with injuries having disrupted much of his stint in SA1.

And the 24-year-old made the most of the opportunity, looking lively from the off and his pace and trickery worried the Terriers’ rearguard.

He set up Andre Ayew for the opener, and always offered an outlet down the right-hand side until he came off just past the hour mark.

And head coach Cooper says that was exactly the sort of display he and his coaching staff have always known Kalulu could produce once his injury worries were behind him.

“He did well, he did really well,” said Cooper.

“It’s been a frustrating time for him having had that long-term injury and a couple of setbacks.

“But he was given an opportunity and he took it. For the hour or so he was on he had a really good impact, particularly in the first half.

“The first thing he did got the supporters on their feet, they got right behind him and he carried that through.

“He got an assist with the first goal and we are really pleased to see him doing what we know he can.

“He’s been unlucky but it is exciting, he comes into the fold at an important time of the season and he can definitely make an impact. He is an impact player.”

Cooper also allayed any fears the Basel wide man had suffered another injury to force him off, but made clear his match fitness still needs to be built up with Swansea facing games at Fulham and Blackburn in quick succession.

“There was a little worry when he went down, but it was just tired legs and he did the right thing to tell us,” added Cooper.

“He put the team first because if you are struggling to keep doing your work the best thing to do is get on someone who is ready to go.

“He came off at 60, rather than 80 or 90, so hopefully he will recover a bit quicker, but we will not rush him too much because of the difficulties he has had.”