Bidwell’s thanks to Cooper
JAKE Bidwell admits Steve Cooper has given him a new lease of life in his debut campaign at Swansea City.
The defender joined Swansea on a free transfer last summer after he was released by Queens Park Rangers.
The 27-year-old has been a key figure in Swansea’s play-off push, with the former Everton and Brentford man making 39 appearances for the club this term.
It comes after he had three tough seasons at QPR, with the Hoops finishing 18th, 16th and then 19th.
And Bidwell says Swansea head coach Cooper has revitalised his career over the course of the last 12 months.
“He’s been brilliant for me personally,” said the defender. “My three years at QPR weren’t the best. We were fighting in the bottom half of the table, and he’s given me a new lease of life.
“He’s got fresh ideas and the way he wants to play suits a lot of the players. It’s been a good fit.
“He’s given me a new energy again which I think I needed after a few years at QPR.”
Bidwell is one of many players flourishing in Swansea’s new threeat-the-back system. Having operated as a left-back for the majority of the campaign, Bidwell has been deployed as a wing-back in recent weeks, with Connor Roberts performing the same role on the opposite flank.
And Bidwell says he’s thoroughly enjoyed the tactical shift.
“From my point of view it gives more emphasis on making an impact at the top end of the pitch, and I’ve enjoyed that,” he added.
“I’m just happy to be in a team that’s playing well. Wherever I’m asked to play, I’ll give 100%.”
Bidwell made 211 appearances in his five seasons with Brentford before joining QPR in 2016.
And he will say a fond farewell to his old stomping ground Griffin Park tomorrow night in what will be the Bees’ final game at the venue.
But Bidwell’s sole focus is on ensuring Swansea secure their place in the play-off final at Wembley next Tuesday.
“It is a bit surreal playing in the last game at Griffin Park, but I am there with Swansea, I am there to do a job with Swansea and all my focus will be to go and get a result,” he said.