Swansea City's hopes for a late-season boost have hit a minor setback, as the return of key defender Josh Key from a hip injury is taking a bit longer than initially hoped. Head coach Vitor Matos has provided an update, indicating the 26-year-old right-back is now more likely to target a comeback for the penultimate Championship fixture at Norwich City on April 25th, rather than the final four matches.

"Josh is making steps in his recovery," Matos stated. "He will probably be available for the last two games of the season, but at this stage, it could come early or a little bit late. That's the plan so far."

In the meantime, the Swans have had to adapt. The absence of their first-choice right-back has opened the door for others to step up, with Joel Ward and academy product Sam Parker sharing duties on the right side of the defense. This tactical experiment has yielded positive results, earning the coach's satisfaction as the team prepares for a crucial away trip to face a struggling Leicester City this Saturday.

Matos praised the duo's different qualities, highlighting how their versatility has become an asset. "Different profiles—it was Joel in one game, Sam in another. We need both, to be fair, until the end of the season," he said. "Sometimes this kind of situation... gives opportunities, and I think Joel and Sam, in different ways, are doing a really good job."

He offered particular insight into Parker's promising contributions, noting the young defender's energy and offensive upside. "He's really good offensively, he has a lot of energy, speed, crosses really well—that's why we try to use him in those spaces high up when we have the ball."

While Key's delayed return is a frustration, Swansea's ability to find reliable solutions in defense is a testament to the squad's depth and adaptability as they navigate the final stretch of a demanding Championship season.