Transfer deadline day switch caps "whirlwind" period for Kieron Freeman
Kieron Freeman has reflected on a “whirlwind” few days after completing a deadline day switch to the Liberty Stadium.
The 28-year-old put pen to paper on a contract until the end of the season, with the defender training with Steve Cooper’s squad on Tuesday.
Freeman, who only joined League One side Swindon in early January, is now looking ahead to what he hopes will be an exciting second half of the campaign.
“It’s been a whirlwind – a bit surreal if anything,” he said. “I found out there was interest a couple of days ago and it is an opportunity I think anyone would have jumped at with both hands.
“It’s been nice to get out and train with the lads and meet all the staff, and everyone has been really welcoming.
“It is a good opportunity for me and I’m really excited to get going. There are good players here already and hopefully I can add to that.”
One player that Freeman is familiar with is Connor Roberts, with the pair both having been involved with Wales, as well as former Swans defender Joe Rodon.
And another ex-Swansea player has welcomed the defender with open arms to SA1.
“I’ve been away in a few Wales camps in the past, so I know Connor and Joe – who has gone now – but it has been nice to see Connor again.
“I messaged Oli (McBurnie) a Swans emoji too! And he replied with ‘two things I love – Freeman and Swans!’”
“It’s a club that is close to his (McBurnie’s) heart. We got on really well at Sheffield United and even outside of football we are really close and speak a lot. He was buzzing just as much as me I think.”
Freeman came through the youth ranks at Nottingham Forest, making his senior debut in August 2011.
After a series of loan spells, he found a home at Sheffield United and went on to make over 100 appearances for the Blades.
The defender played a key role in the side that won promotion from League One in 2017 before featuring over 20 times as Chris Wilder’s side reached the Premier League two seasons ago.
“When we got promoted from League One, I played the majority of the games,” he said. “Coming into the Championship and then finishing tenth, we soon realised it isn’t just about 11 players – it is a squad game, there are a lot of midweek games and it is all about how good your squad is.
“You have to stick together because everyone has a part to play.”
Steve Cooper’s men currently sit second in the Championship table and face table toppers Norwich at the Liberty on Friday night.
And Freeman – who is no stranger to the Liberty Stadium – is looking forward to the second half of the season.
“The last time I was down here, I played for Wales against England for the Under-21s,” he said. “I remember the seafront and it has brought back some good memories for me.
“I’m delighted to be here and can’t wait to get started.
“There’s a great incentive between now and the end of the season. We just have to take each game as it comes and do our best.”
