Modou Barrow reckons he is getting better all the time as he bids to land a regular slot in Swansea City’s first-choice side.
The Gambian flyer is pushing hard for a maiden start under Francesco Guidolin following a number of bright displays from the bench.
To an extent Barrow has been a victim of Swansea’s decision to play with a narrow, four-man midfield in a number of recent games.
But when he has been given the chance to impress, the 23-year-old has usually made a positive impression.
And while the former Ostersunds player feels he still has a lot to learn about Premier League football, Barrow believes he is making progress.
“I’m getting chances to come on, and for me I think I’m getting better every week. I’m getting better every game,” says Barrow, who arrived in Wales in the summer of 2014.
“A goal will come because every game I’m getting close.
“I’m learning every time I play.
“I’m learning from the training sessions, I’m learning from the guys and I’m learning from the defenders.
“I’m just trying to get better.”
Barrow has managed three Premier League starts this season, the last of which came against Sunderland just over a month ago.
That tally represents a significant step forward for a player who had begun just one top-flight fixture before 2015-16.
But Barrow wants more — and a number of promising cameo appearances have suggested he deserves further opportunities.
If Guidolin plays the diamond at Tottenham next week — which looks a distinct possibility after defeat by Southampton — then Barrow’s chances of making the starting side will be slim.
But whenever Swansea next go with two wide players, he should be a serious contender to make the XI.
“Like I say, I’m just working hard because we have good players in our squad who play on the wing,” Barrow says.
“I’m trying to get better and improve all the time.
“Last season I improved and this season I’ve improved even more.
“A big target is to score my first Premier League goal, but right now I need to play for the team.
“The team is the most important thing.
“The fans are encouraging. They see I’m coming on, working hard and doing good things so that’s a positive for me.”
Meanwhile, Barrow insists Swansea City can strike a couple of major blows in the Premier League relegation fight by upsetting Tottenham and Arsenal.
Swansea face daunting away trips to the two North London giants next in their scrap to stay in the top flight. Having won only twice on their travels all season, Swansea will be given little chance of triumphing at either White Hart Lane or the Emirates.
“They are good sides, but Sunderland beat Manchester United last weekend, so that shows you every game in the Premier League is a tough game,” Barrow said.
Spurs will welcome Swansea a week on Sunday having won their last five Premier League games. Arsenal, who host Guidolin’s men three days later, have lost only once in eight top-flight matches, but Barrow is adamant Swansea will travel in upbeat mood.
Source: South Wales Evening Post