Jackett Praises Young Jones

With Leon Knight's Swansea career coming to a surprising abrupt end, this could clear the path for 17 year-old striker Chris Jones as he hopes to gain some first team experience this season.

The teenager is one of the few players to come through the youth ranks recently and earn himself a professional contract, while Bond and Pritchard moved on to new clubs having been unable to push for a place in the team last season.

Jones also looked lively during the pre-season friendlies and was delighted to land a contract with the club he supports, having turned down the opportunity to move to a Premiership club.

He came on as second half substitute in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy first round match away at Walsall on Tuesday and manager Kenny Jackett was full of praise for the youngster and said: 'I've liked what I've seen from Chris so far this season and I think he can do something for us,'

'He has worked hard and deserves to be in and around the first-team group.

'He has some pace and some ability and can play either up front off a big man or out wide.

'He's a very confident lad and he actually wanted to take a penalty in the shoot-out at Walsall.

'He was disappointed I didn't pick him to take one - I didn't feel it was his responsibility - but I'm pleased he wanted to step up. That's a good sign.

'He's desperately itching for a chance and if we can bring through young players like him I'll be well pleased.'

Jones has also appeared on the subs bench a few times in the League this year and I'm sure we'll see a lot more of him as the season goes on.

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