By Gareth James
New Swansea City signing Ethan Laird has paid tribute to Nicky Butt for his progress through the ranks at Old Trafford.
Laird – who could make his Swansea debut at home to Stoke City on Tuesday night after joining on a season-long loan from Manchester United – says former United star Butt has been a key figure in his development.
Butt left Old Trafford earlier this year after a shake-up in the club’s academy staff but not before the former head of first team development had helped the likes of Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, Dean Henderson and Scott McTominay break into the first team during his nine-year stint as a coach.
Laird, 20, also made two first team appearances before spending last season on loan at MK Dons under Swansea head coach Russell Martin.
“A number of people have helped me, from coaches to players who have been fundamental,” said Laird.
“Nicky Butt has been a big one, he trusted me as a youngster to play with older players and teams.”
Laird has also told Swansea’s official club website he was keen to grab the opportunity of more first team action after becoming the club’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window.
“I am buzzing, I cannot wait to get started and get out on the pitch,” said Laird, who watched the Swans draw with Sheffield United at the Swansea.com Stadium on Saturday night.
“This is a big club, a very big club, and the type of club I want to play for. I played here once before at the stadium when I was 16 (for Manchester United Under-23s) and I really enjoyed it.
“It was exciting to watch the game against Sheffield United, the fans here are intense and I cannot wait to play in front of them.
“I just want to get out there and experience it. I also love working with Russell and I just know he can get the best out of me. The big thing about him is trust. When I came in from United, he told me exactly how it was straight away.
“I just learnt so much in that short amount of time, it was unbelievable so I knew if I worked with him again, I could continue to improve and develop.
“I love the style of play. I think it is the best way to play football, it is entertaining, and it is how you want to see your team play, getting those passes in. That’s what I enjoy and that’s why I am here.”
The Swans will be searching for their first Championship victory under Martin against Stoke, having followed up their opening day defeat at Blackburn Rovers with a goalless draw at home to Sheffield United on Saturday night.
Stoke began with a 3-2 win at home to Reading, before following that up with a 0-0 draw at Birmingham City last weekend.
Martin said: “They’ve added to their squad a lot. They have a lot of strength, depth, players who know the league and an excellent manager.
“They’re very well organised. We’ve watched some of them already from last week’s game. It’ll be another tough game. We’ve got a tough start to the season, there’s no doubt about it.
“The squad is a little bit thin with injuries and stuff. We’re hoping to get them back in time, so we have to recover really well and make sure we’re ready for another tough one on Tuesday.”