Oli McBurnie can enjoy a breakthrough season for Swansea City in the Championship, believes new manager Graham Potter.
McBurnie made 12 appearances for the Swans in the Premier League last season, but was unable to establish himself as a first choice striker under either Paul Clement or Carlos Carvalhal.
The Scotland international then went on a successful loan spell at Barnsley, where he scored nine times in just 17 Championship appearances and was duly named the Tykes’ player of the season.
Now, McBurnie is aiming to keep up that form and regularity of appearance under Potter, who has so far given him the encouragement of a pre-season selection against Yeovil as well as a glowing report.
McBurnie, 22, signed a new three-year contract at the Liberty Stadium last week and Potter says: “He’s still a young player but we can help him have a very exciting career.
“There was interest in him over the summer but he told me he wants to take the next step in his career here. We feel he can do that.
“It’s really good news that Oli has signed a new contract,” said Potter. “Oli has made a really positive impression on the staff. I am so impressed with him as a young man.
“Often players say they want to play and it’s not quite as simple as that, but he said he wants to fight for an opportunity to play and that was the attitude I want from my players.
“He is back here after a good loan spell and he’s feeling good.
“I am looking forward to working with Oli and helping him reach his potential.
“The club has invested time in Oli over the years and he’s looking to repay that.
McBurnie started in the opening pre-season friendly at Yeovil, which the Swans won 2-1, playing the first half before being replaced by Andre Ayew.
His next chance is likely to come on the club’s tour of Germany, where they begin in Magdeburg with a game against Italians Genoa on Saturday. A second match, on the same afternoon, will see another Swansea line-up face Magdeburg.
Potter has been pleased with McBurnie’s early contribution.
“He is one of those players who team-mates really appreciate,” added Potter.
“He works really hard and sacrifices himself for the team, and he does the most important thing in football – he scores goals.”