Florian Bianchini’s Role Shifts to Striker Following Improved Form, Coach Williams Confirms

Head coach Luke Williams intends to provide Florian Bianchini with more opportunities to play as a striker, following the Frenchman’s recent upturn in form. Swansea had initially acquired Bianchini from Bastia in August for approximately £2m, expecting him to operate primarily on the flanks. However, the 23-year-old’s performances since his arrival in Wales have prompted Williams to revise his assessment. Bianchini struggled to make a significant impact while playing out wide during the initial couple of months of the season. Nevertheless, after being introduced as a centre-forward against Millwall two weeks prior, Bianchini created two notable scoring opportunities. Subsequently, during another substitute appearance as a striker against Oxford United last weekend, Bianchini scored his inaugural goal for Swansea. Williams once more deployed Bianchini as a number nine against Watford in midweek; although he did not find the net, he appeared sharp and eager to contribute to his team’s 1-0 victory. “He played wide more often than not last season and has great attributes for a wide player,” Williams stated. “He was brought into fill that role but I think it’s fair to say that he found it difficult to find some rhythm there.” The coach continued, “But since he’s been down the middle of the pitch, he’s looked a lot more confident and comfortable and he is making a really positive impact. I think certainly his immediate future will be more there.” Bianchini has established himself as a legitimate contender to start in the forward position as Swansea aims for a third consecutive victory against Burnley on Sunday. Zan Vipotnik has been Williams’ starting central striker for the past four matches, while Liam Cullen has been utilized in a more withdrawn position. Williams commented that his trio of centre-forward options possess distinct attributes, with the swift Bianchini appearing considerably more comfortable in a central role. “He is so quick and powerful and he was showing a good level of aggression and looked a goal threat [against Watford],” Williams further stated. “I think the goal at Oxford has given him an extra boost in confidence. I’m very excited about his future here with us.”