Manchester United youngster Ethan Laird made his debut for Swansea City in the Championship on Tuesday night.
Laird’s season long transfer was only confirmed on Monday, and so unsurprisingly, the defender began the game on the bench.
On an unsuccessful night for Swansea at home against Stoke City, Laird ended up being a bright spot when he came on.
Stoke won the game 3-1, with Laird coming on in the 58th minute as part of a double change with Swansea 2-0 down at the time.
Laird replaced former Manchester City defender Joel Latibeaudiere, and took his placed as right wing-back in Swansea’s 3-4-2-1 formation.
This was a role similar to the one he played under manager Russell Martin at MK Dons last season on loan.
Laird had a busy introduction, making 36 touches in 32 minutes, in comparison to Latibeaudiere who made 24 touches in 57 minutes.
The United defender won one aerial duel, completed one dribble, made one tackle and one interception.
There was one moment where Stoke looked to get away on the counter attack and feed their left winger, and Laird’s pace allowed him to recover and win the ball back and stop the threat.
Wales Online gave him a 6/10 player rating, while most of his teammates got 4s and 5s, writing: “Looked lively and always aimed to go forward, something that could not be said about many of his team mates. Should start at Bristol City.”
Swansea currently sit 21st out of 24 teams after three games with one draw and two defeats. That poor form makes it even more likely Laird will be starting the next fixture with the team needing to change things up.
There was a brief and promising assessment of Laird from a handful of Swansea fans on social media.
Manchester United have sent Laird out on loan to gain experience, and in this Swansea side it could be sink or swim.
The early signs show he is up for the fight. It won’t be easy this season, but if Laird comes through it as an improved player and still with Swansea fans praising his performances, then he will be a stronger player for it, and possibly ready to step up to Premier League football.
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