Top flight can help us grow, says Toshack

Coach Cameron Toshack believes Swansea City Under-23s have what it takes to compete against some of the best teams in the world.

The young Swans are a week away from kicking off their campaign in the top flight of Premier League 2 following promotion last season.

It means the U23s will come up against the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea with a home tie against Liverpool the first challenge in division 1 next Friday (August 11) with a 7pm kick-off at Landore.

“We are looking forward to the start of the season but we are under no illusions it will be tough,” said Toshack.

“We will look to be competitive in every game, but we have to be realistic with the goals we set.

“This season, we compete in the best under-23 league in the world.

"Any competition involving Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton and Chelsea means a tough game every week.

“The competition will consistently be at a high level. Our players will go into games knowing they are featuring against some of the best players in the world.

“It will be a challenge, but one we have to embrace. Our players know they will need to be at their best every game, but I believe that will only help us grow as a team.”

Later today, the U23s face Aston Villa's development side in their penultimate pre-season friendly at Bodymoor Heath (1pm).