Mawson desperate to secure Swans starting berth

Alfie Mawson’s Premier League debut was undoubtedly a success and now the Swansea defender is intent on nailing down a regular starting berth.

Having made the £5million move from Barnsley over the summer, Mawson’s only taste of action for his new club before the weekend came against Newport County in the Checkatrade Trophy.

But the 22-year-old was handed a starting spot against Watford as part of a re-jigged back four including Mike van der Hoorn and Stephen Kingsley.

The new-look defence excelled, limiting Watford’s chances in a 0-0 draw, and Mawson is desperate for his appearance not to be just a one-off.

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“I don’t want to come in and get a game now and again – that’s not how I am,” said Mawson. “When I get in the team, I want to make sure I stay there.

“When I came here, I always knew it was going to be tough and be a battle because you’re fighting with international players for a place in the team.

“Coming from my background, people might have thought I wasn’t ready, but I was adamant that I would be ready.

“I thank the gaffer for giving me my opportunity. There’s no fitness like match fitness, and hopefully now I can stay in the team and keep working hard.”

The clash against the Hornets was just new boss Bob Bradley’s second game in charge of the Swans.

And the American was impressed by Mawson’s display in the middle of the back-four.

“I thought Alfie and Mike (van der Hoorn) gave a solid performance at the heart of defence,” said Bradley.

“I think Alfie has earned the respect from his team-mates day in and day out. He has a real presence on the field.

“He is not afraid to talk and organise and he is a solid passer. His first game I thought was very good.”