x

Delight All Round At OTJ Wales Cap

Kevin Ratcliffe and Roberto Martinez both express their delight at Owain Tudur Jones' first Wales cap

Tudur Jones was a second half substitute in the 2-0 victory and, after some appearances from the bench for the Swans, he now believes that he is putting the nightmare two years he has suffered behind him.

And he was joined in the delight in seeing him finally play for his country - almost two years after his first call-up - by his club manager, Roberto Martinez and Wales legend Kevin Ratcliffe.

It has been long known that John Toshack is a big admirer of the Bangor product and his debut, whilst not surprise, has come as he works to fight his way back into the Swans side although he has a good chance of a start tomorrow with Ferrie Bodde absent for a couple of weeks.   He may find himself behind Darren Pratley in the race for the Dutchman's position but if the start came it would be another obstacle overcome.

Speaking after the game on Wednesday, Tudur Jones said "It's a big relief to get that first cap, now I've got to concentrate, work hard and keep going

"I felt that there was some sloppiness in my play. It's going to take a lot more game time to get my sharpness and hopefully I can find that by the end of the season.

"We can do a lot better than that, but it was nice to get the win

"Freddy Eastwood showed again that he is a proven goal scorer, he's got a few at international level now and long may that continue.

"I think it's going to be onwards and upwards for Wales now."

Ex Wales Captain Kevin Ratcliffe added "It was great to see him after his many injury problems

"He looked rusty and really needs a pre-season and game time, but he seems to have bulked up in the gym and that will serve him well as he progresses to higher levels.

"Craig Bellamy filled out that way when he was at Newcastle. He benefited from that, and Jones will need the power if he makes it to the Championship with Swansea next season."

And nobody was more delighted for the midfielder than Martinez - who played alongside OTJ when he first arrived at Swansea and is now his club manager “It was a proud moment for everyone because we all know how hard it has been for Owain,” he said.

“It was a great moment for Owain, his family and everyone at Swansea.

“I thought he did really well. He looked like he had been playing for Wales for a long time.

“We always said the character he has is going to help him get through any challenge in football.

“Having played 45 minutes for Wales, he is in a position now where he could play 90 minutes. “He is fit and fresh and ready for the next step.”

What to read next:

Brave Swans in memorable game at Carrow Road
It was a pulsating game to watch and very much one of my favourite away games of the season. The Swans looked an entirely different side to that we saw at Middlesbrough when it is clear a catalyst for commitment was agreed behind the scenes at Swansea City. To a man every player grafted and wore the shirt with prid. To see the players really acknowledge the Swans support at Carrow Road this afternoon was emotional.
Norwich City 2 - 2 Swansea City - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
TEAM NEWS : Norwich City v Swansea City
The Swans are on the Norfolk Broads, punting and boating their way to the end of the season. Hopefully the city of Norwich is obliging.
Swansea City : Jack Army travel over 1,000 miles for two games in succession
Swansea City have set out on their second long distance away trip in two weekends, this time to Norwich for todays clash between the Swans and Canaries (3pm) Over the last ten meetings between the clubs Swansea City have won five times, Norwich the same.
Cardiff City fan sends tragedy tweet directed at dead Swansea City fan Terry Coles
As a result of the news reported by Sky on Wednesday that five military horses had escaped and ran through central London, a Cardiff City follower thought it wise to relate the incident to the death of Swansea fan Terry Coles, 42.
Swansea reject Cullen contract and trigger one year option
Liam Cullen has had his request for a new contract dismissed by Swansea City after discussions broke down last week. The lowest paid ‘senior’ player at the club ( he is twenty five) asked for a better contract increasing his £3,500 a week to around £7,000 a week over three years.
Gwyn’s Eye View : Norwich City v Swansea City ‘The officials’
Thanks to Gwyn we have a thorough assessment of this weeks officials who will take charge at Carrow Road this Saturday at 3pm. Norwich City will be keen to get the points to guarantee their play off slot, and Saturday is their first go.
Sam Parker hasn’t turned down a new deal, he is willing to negotiate
He was a revelation for the Swans for the few games he played this season, and now it emerges Sam Parker has ‘turned down’ a new Swansea City contract. News is thin on the ground, and some of it just incorrect as he looks to involve his representatives in some further negotiations. Plus his current contract runs for two more years.
Swansea City : The vision is clearer, so Jamal Lowe ?
There were some worrying moments for the Swans yesterday, on three occasions mistakes from playing out from the back nearly saw the home side score. And is there now a case for Jamal Lowe to be offered a contract at Swansea ?
Leighton James : His own football revolution
With the passing of Leighton James yesterday we have a Saturday night treat for football fans, Swans fans and Wales followers the world over. Who can recall the magic boots imposing themselves on clubs throughout Wales and England ?