Kalulu’s looking to make the most of his big chance
ALDO Kalulu believes he sent Steve Cooper a positive message following his impact in Swansea City’s 3-1 win over Huddersfield Town at the weekend.
The Frenchman made only his third league start of the season for the Swans and impressed against the West Yorkshire outfit before being replaced shortly after the hour mark.
And in the absence of Daniel James following the Welshman’s move to Manchester United last summer, the winger believes his pace can be a key asset for the Swans in the final stages of the 2019-20 campaign.
“I was waiting for this opportunity for a while,” he said.
“My last game was over one and a half months ago, but I was not surprised because I try to work a lot in training.
“The coach gave me this opportunity so I was happy. I showed the coach and staff that I can help the team and bring something else, maybe a different profile from the other players.
“I’m a new player competitor within the squad and I think I made some points with this performance.
“Maybe I have a little of that pace he (James) gave the team last year.
“The coach wants me to get in behind the defence and disturb their defence and I think I made it difficult for them, so I’m happy.”
Kalulu successfully completed four of his five dribbles against the Terriers while he also made three interceptions during his time on the pitch.
It’s also notable that his four forward passes in the win over Danny Cowley’s side all found the mark.
He ended the match with a passing accuracy of 79%, the best of any Swansea player.
Fellow winger Jordon Garrick also impressed after coming off the bench to score for the Swans for the second game running.
And while Kalulu is hoping to be selected once again for the Swans’ clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage
tomorrow night, Cooper now has a tricky selection dilemma to solve.
“I hope I will play on Wednesday now, but this depends on the coach. I’m here and I’m fit now and I’m hungry for more,” added Kalulu.
Swansea have the option to make
Kalulu’s loan deal from Basel permanent in the summer.
And after a significant spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, the versatile wideman finally looks set to have an impact for the first team as they aim to keep their promotion push on track.