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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Tom Coleman

Man Utd star Daniel James and the two Swansea City men he credits for his dramatic rise

It's been remarkable rise for Welsh winger Daniel James.

The 21-year old only broke into the first team set-up at Swansea City 18 months ago, but a fistful of incredible performances have elevated him onto the international stage with Wales and, in the process, helped seal a move to one of the world's biggest clubs.

James has already paid tribute to Swansea for giving him chance to shine , but he has now singled out two particular figures for praise.

Cameron Toshack and Gary Richards have helped to oversee the breakthrough of several of City's current first team stars, including Oli McBurnie, Joe Rodon and Connor Roberts.

Toshack's glowing reputation even saw him come under consideration for the role of Graham Potter's replacement as first team coach, before the club eventually opted for Steve Cooper.

Nevertheless, his role in helping to nurture a young James has not gone unnoticed by those within the club, who still value him as highly as the player himself.

"I got brought in and moulded the ''Swansea Way'' and I will always be grateful for that," said James. "It was massive for me.

"The coaches in the academy helped to get me ready for that first team environment. 

"That pathway was always there for me. Cameron and Gary Richards were a big part of that for me, as well as the guys in the gym helping me become more robust. Whatever happens I will always be so grateful."

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