Swansea City defender Joe Rodon has revealed he is approaching the final stretch of his recovery from a broken metatarsal.

Rodon had been enjoying a fine breakthrough season in south Wales but he has been out of action since January when he suffered the injury in Swansea's victory over Sheffield United.

Tottenham Hotspur loanee Cameron Carter-Vickers has stepped in during Rodon's absence and he has proved an able deputy.

But Swansea supporters will be relieved to hear Rodon is nearing a return as they have missed his presence at the back. The Swans have lost five of their last eight league matches without the 21-year-old.

Rodon told Swansea's club website he has learned a lot during his recovery and is now approaching the end of his rehabilitation process.

"It was a big setback for me," he said. "I feel like I’ve been sidelined for a long time, but I’m at the final stages now so hopefully everything goes to plan, and I’ll be back on the pitch soon.

"I’ve not had a lengthy injury like this before, so it’s been a bit of a learning experience for me."

This is the first time Rodon has experienced a spell on the sidelines since his introduction into the first team this season.

Swansea failed to replace centre-backs Jordi Amat, Kyle Bartley, Alfie Mawson and Federico Fernandez in the summer, which made Rodon one of Graham Potter's first-choice defenders and he has not disappointed.

Rodon's ability to play out from the back is one of his key strengths and has really benefitted Potter's side this season. His marauding runs into midfield have helped launch attacks from deep and Swansea have been missing this outlet in his absence.

The verdict

Swansea supporters will be delighted that Rodon's stint on the sidelines is reaching its conclusion. His return will provide a huge boost to the side for the final run-in.

It is likely he will re-enter the defence alongside Mike van der Hoorn, with Carter-Vickers dropping back to the bench.

The loanee added some much-needed depth to Potter's defence this season but it is unlikely he will remain at the Liberty Stadium beyond the summer.

Rodon is the future of Swansea's defence and his absence has allowed Swansea fans to appreciate his importance to the side.