Williams stresses urgency over Cabango and Darling

Swansea have conceded just three goals in five Championship games this season

Head coach Luke Williams has stressed the need for “urgency” as Swansea City look to ensure they do not lose defenders Ben Cabango and Harry Darling next summer.

Both players are out of contract at the end of the season, with Darling recently revealing that “no talks” have taken place over a new deal.

Darling, 25, and Wales international Cabango, 24, are the favoured centre-back partnership used by Williams, who is eager for the pair to stay.

Asked how urgent it was that talks take place soon, Williams said: "I will say the same amount of urgency that was shown when Ronald passed to the opposition winger [against Norwich last weekend] and Harry and Ben ran back like two crazy men.

"One tried to make a tackle and when the ball went past [goalkeeper] Lawrence Vigouroux, the other centre-half blocked it from going in the goal. That level of urgency would be good."

Williams said there had been informal discussions between Darling and the Championship club but no firm offer had been made.

"We're not at that stage yet, so that will happen in the near future, I believe," added Williams.

"The two players are very important to us. I do not want to lose those guys, two top players who we think a lot of."

Williams has previously worked with Darling at MK Dons, while the head coach singled out Cabango for praise, comparing him to England legend Bobby Moore for a potentially goal-saving tackle in the win over Norwich.

"Brilliant, his [Cabango’s] whole performance was excellent," added Williams.

"That moment shows you how focused and committed he is because his lightning-quick reaction was of absolute pinpoint precision to make that tackle without giving away a foul. Incredible."