Yan Dhanda glad to end wait for league start

Yan Dhanda hopes the sleepless nights are behind him after helping Swansea City maintain their strong start to the new season.

The midfielder, 20, made just his second league start for the Swans in Sunday’s win over Birmingham, and enjoyed a fine outing, including winning the penalty for Borja Baston to wrap up a 3-0 win.

Dhanda had burst onto the senior scene with the Swans a year ago, scoring with his first touch at first-team level to secure a win at Sheffield United on the opening day of last season.

He has had to be patient and wait for his chance but – working under Steve Cooper and Mike Marsh, who he knows from his time at Liverpool – he hopes his showing against the Blues means he can push for regular first-team action.

“I’ve been training really well and I have loved my time since I joined the club,” said Dhanda.

“I believe in myself more than anything so to get on the pitch and show what I can do, and also get an assist for Borja’s penalty is brilliant.

“I was tossing and turning all night just thinking about the game so to get out there and do well is amazing.

“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for so long and I can only thank the manager for trusting me.”

Dhanda will hope to be involved again when the Swans host Cambridge United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

And he wants the home side to make sure they keep the momentum going in SA1.

“I think we have to approach the Cambridge match and build on the momentum, play our style like we have done every other game,” he said.

“I’m sure if we play our style we will get chances. We are all on the same page and we know what we are trying to do, so if we do that I think we can be very strong.”