Alfie Mawson: Swansea City defender happy to be talisman after Ashley Williams exit

Alfie Mawson initially made his debut for Swansea in their U23s win against Newport County in the EFL Trophy

Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson says he is happy to be a leader for the team after the departure of former club captain Ashley Williams.

The Swans signed Mawson from Barnsley and the 22-year-old kept a clean sheet on his first team debut in their goalless draw against Watford.

Wales skipper Williams, who played over 300 games during eight years at Swansea, joined Everton in the summer.

"I'd like to come in and have the same impact he had," Mawson said.

The former Barnsley centre back made 58 appearances for the Tykes last season and helped the club to the Football League Trophy and promotion to the Championship.

"When [Ashley Williams] came here he was a League One player and he rocketed them up the leagues and he was brilliant at the Euros in the summer," Mawson told BBC Wales Sport.

"If a guy like that goes it's going to leave a big hole. I've not thought too much about it but if I can take on that role then I am happy to do so, but I'll take one game at a time and see what happens."

Despite his age, Mawson feels he can build on the experience his gained prior to his move to the Liberty Stadium and become a talisman in the Swans' defence for some time to come.

"I don't feel 22. I feel a lot older than that. To be seen as a leader is brilliant," he continued.

"I'm willing to give it a crack. I'm still young, I'm still learning my trade but I don't feel like there's another club that's the right fit for me."