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Premier League: Bafetimbi Gomis praised by Ashley Williams

Bafetimbi Gomis and Ashley Williams of Swansea
Image: Bafetimbi Gomis and Ashley Williams following Swansea's equaliser against West Ham

Swansea captain Ashley Williams was pleased to see striker Bafetimbi Gomis make his mark in the 1-1 draw with West Ham on Saturday.

The 29-year-old Frenchman was deputising for the absent Wilfried Bony, who is with the Ivory Coast ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, and he netted his fifth goal of the season in the 74th minute to cancel out Andy Carroll’s strike for the Hammers.

"I'm delighted for Bafe, I thought he had a good game again and he's showed what he's all about in the last few weeks," said Williams, who was making his 300th appearance for the Swans.

"It was a brilliant goal and he showed his strength all match.

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"Wilf's not here for at least a month and it's his time to shine now.

"He did that and I've got no concerns with Bafe coming in, he's a very fine player and I knew he'd do a job for us."

Working very hard

Gomis, whose powerful header hit the post before going into the net off Mark Noble, said: "I am happy for my goal but I thought we deserved the victory.

"We pushed hard and created a lot of chances and I thought we deserved to win.

"Even though we had some players missing we created a lot of chances. I have been working very hard and my team-mates have all helped me a lot."

Gomis celebrated his goal by running to the Swansea bench where he was handed a French flag, raising it aloft and looking to the skies in memory of those who lost their lives in the Paris terror attacks this week.

"It wasn't an easy week for all French people and I wanted to join my country even though I don't live there anymore," Gomis told Swansea's official website.

"I am happy Swansea supported me in this difficult time to provide me with the armband and the French flag to show my support towards my country."

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