TEENAGER defender Joe Romanski admits he gained a greater understanding with regards to what it takes to be a young player at a Premier League football club following Swindon Town’s 4-0 Checkatrade Trophy loss to Chelsea U21s.

Romanski was part of a back four that conceded four goals on Tuesday night as Chelsea’s youngsters ran riot at the Energy Check County Ground, denying Phil Brown’s troops any points in their opening group stage game.

Romanski, who played at left-back throughout the 90 minutes, was joined by Dion Conroy, Sid Nelson and James Dunne in defence – which ultimately struggled to deal with Chelsea’s fast-paced approach to the game.

“It was tough playing against an opponent like Chelsea, who are known for producing brilliant young players,” said Romanski, who became the first player to play for Town born after the year 2000 when making his debut against against Grimsby in April.

“They moved the ball quickly and played with a lot of tempo. It’s hard to defend against and I’d say it took us 10 or 15 minutes to get used to it.

“We were off the pace in the first half, we perhaps should’ve got tighter to them and pressed harder.

“It makes you realise what it takes and what kind of ability you need.

“That’s not me saying I don’t have it, I know I have it.

“It’s a goal of mine to reach that level.”

It’s possible that Romanski may be required in the coming weeks as Town look forward to three games in the space of eight days, starting on Saturday with a trip to Lincoln.

A home Carabao Cup tie against Forest Green Rovers follows before Brown’s troops host Tranmere on Saturday, August 18.

With Kyle Knoyle subbed off with a possible hamstring injury on Tuesday night and Brown admitting some of his players are not yet ready for Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday football, Romanski’s services could be called upon.

He said: “I don’t mind where I play – left, centre or right at a push.

“My goal is to get a run out where I can and make the most of it, and most importantly learn from it.

“I want to keep the other boys on their toes and let them know I’m knocking on the door.

“Phil (Brown) is full of energy. He’s a great manager to play under and he makes you enjoy every day.

“Every day is entertaining, and he makes us enjoy football, that’s the main thing for success – you’ve got to want to come in and improve.

“And he’s a man that does that very well.”