DANIEL Alfei's sparkling debut capped a fairytale first-team rise for the Swansea City fan.

Ten years ago the defender, who hails from Sketty, was standing on the North Bank at the Vetch, watching John Hollins's side scratch around in the lower divisions.

But last Saturday he started for Brendan Rodgers's Premier League hopefuls for the first time in the 4-0 FA Cup demolition of Colchester United.

What's more, Alfei put in a man-of-the-match performance at right-back after stepping in at the last minute for the injured Angel Rangel.

The display represented the latest chapter in the 18-year-old's story — but undoubtedly not the last.

"It went really well, much better than I expected," Alfei admitted.

"I was quite nervous going into it because there was a bit of pressure with it being an FA Cup game.

"But I was really happy with how it turned out and with the result we got as well.

"I was just happy to be playing. It took an injury to get me in there, but I'm hoping I can keep my place in there now and be involved all the time."

Rangel was due to begin as one of the full-backs, along with Jazz Richards, but was ruled out with a groin strain.

With Neil Taylor nursing an ankle problem and Alan Tate suspended, Alfei got the nod ahead of Albert Serran.

And he grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

Playing in a rookie rearguard that also included fellow teenager Richards, home debutant Yves Ma-Kalambay and, after Garry Monk was forced off early, back-up man Serran, Alfei stood firm.

He was confident in the tackle and comfortable in possession, even looking to break forward on occasion.

"I got told on Friday that there was a possibility I'd be starting, they were just seeing how Angel's injury was," he said.

"Then I turned up on Saturday morning and he wasn't there, so I was pleased because I knew I'd be starting.

"There were a few butterflies and a few nerves, but my first touch was the most important.

"Once you make that first pass you get settled and, as the game went on, I got more and more comfortable.

"The players were there to help me, there was always an option on, and the more you grow into the game, the more you can express yourself."

Alfei's senior bow came halfway into his first season as a professional.

But he has been with the club since the age of 14 after being picked up playing local football.

The former Olchfa pupil represented Dunvant, Three Crosses and West End before being drafted into Swansea's centre of excellence.

From there he has progressed through the ranks and signed a first pro contract last summer along with fellow defender Joe Walsh and ball-playing midfielder Lee Lucas.

Alfei has also made his mark on the international scene.

He has three Wales Under-21 caps to his name after making seven appearances at under-19 level and 11 for Brian Flynn's under-17 side.

He is the latest starlet to roll off a blossoming youth team production line that has also seen the likes of Richards and Joe Allen force their way into the first-team frame in recent seasons.

"I've been here for about five years and I've been in the stands since I was a youngster, since I was nine or ten years old," Alfei added.

"It's every child's dream to play for their home club, especially after watching from the stands, and I'm delighted I had the chance on Saturday.

"When I played local football I supported the club through and through.

"My parents used to take me to watch games, so I'm just happy I could get a chance to play for them too.

"My family have supported me all through my football career and I'm sure that will continue."