Luke Williams has saluted Goncalo Franco following the midfielder’s rapid return to action from a serious facial injury.
Franco suffered a broken jaw and damage to four teeth during Swansea’s win over Luton Town on 29 December.
He missed Swansea’s defeat at Portsmouth on New Year’s Day – but was back in the starting side for last Saturday’s draw with West Bromwich Albion.
That was despite the fact that Franco, who has established himself as a fans’ favourite at Swansea following his move from Moreierense last summer, has been avoiding solid foods because of the damage caused by a collision with Luton defender Mark McGuinness.
“He has got a very soft diet at the moment, I can tell you that much, because his teeth are moving back into their previous accommodation,” said Swansea head coach Williams.
“But he’s a warrior. I am enjoying watching him develop and I am really proud of him.
“The fact that he went back on the pitch [against Luton] was incredible. [It was] ridiculous really, but he’s a warrior and you can’t put that into someone.”
There will be more recovery time for Franco this week as Swansea prepare for an FA Cup third-round tie at Southampton on Sunday.
It may be that the Portuguese is rested at St Mary’s Stadium, particularly with a trip to rivals Cardiff City to come next in the Championship on Saturday, 18 January.
