John Swift credits Frank Lampard for Swindon strike

Monday 19 Jan 2015
John Swift on the ball for Chelsea
England U20s and Chelsea midfielder John Swift has paid tribute to Frank Lampard after finding his scoring touch for Swindon Town.

The 19-year-old has hit the ground running during his loan spell at the County Ground, impressing with his performances for the League One club.

He netted his first senior goal during their victory over Chesterfield on Saturday, as well as providing an assist in a 3-1 win which sent them to the top of the table. 

“To sit down with a player like Lampard was amazing”

John Swift 

And Swift revealed it was frequent chats and mentoring sessions with former Stamford Bridge idol Lampard that have helped his record in front of goal.

"To sit down with a player like that [Lampard] was amazing,” said Swift, who came through Chelsea’s youth academy after joining them as a 13-year-old.

"He told me to get goals from midfield, you have to try your hardest to get in the box and get on the end of things.

"After that, I scored a lot of goals for Chelsea Under-21s and luckily I did that and it came off."

John Swift in action against Belgium

John Swift in action against Belgium last year

Swift, who also has caps at U16, U17, U18 and U19 level, joined Swindon earlier this month for the rest of the campaign.

He had earlier been on loan with Rotherham United, but after just three appearances at the New York Stadium in the first half of the season, was recalled by Jose Mourinho.

And he is now enjoying the style of play employed by Mark Cooper’s in-form side.

"They play more football than I was used to – everyone is great on the ball," he added.

"Even our keeper Wes [Foderingham] is good with his feet. He’s as cool as any player on the pitch."

The Portsmouth-born playmaker has also made a good impression on new boss Cooper.

"John's a very nice, quiet lad, unassuming and very polite," he revealed.

"He just wants to get on and he's not a big-time Charlie. He's fitted in seemlessly and is an intelligent player."

By Nicholas Veevers Content Manager - FA Owned Channels