Laudrup in left-back search

03 September 2012 12:18

Swansea manager Michael Laudrup is set to launch a search for a free-agent left-back after Neil Taylor was ruled out for the rest of the season with the injury he suffered in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Sunderland.

The 23-year-old Wales international, who featured for Team GB at the Olympics, dislocated and broke his ankle in three places after his lower left leg buckled under him as he challenged Craig Gardner. Ben Davies replaced Taylor on Saturday, and the 19-year-old could now be set for a run in the team.

However, Taylor's injury is a big concern for Laudrup and the Dane wants to bolster his defence. "We only have one left-back now and he is only 19, so we will see what we can do," he told the South Wales Evening Post.

"Neil's injury is serious first of all for him as a person and a player. One second you are out on the pitch running and playing, then suddenly you are out.

"You are talking a long time before Neil returns to the game, and we will have to do something.

"Ben did well in pre-season and he did great against Sunderland, but he is 19 - you can't put so much responsibility on his shoulders.

"We can't go out and buy someone, but we need someone. We will have to wait and see what possibilities we have. What happens if Ben gets an injury or a little flu or whatever? We need an extra player."

Davies has today been called up to the Wales squad as replacement for his injured team-mate.

Source: PA