Swansea City head coach Vitor Matos has launched a passionate defence of Liam Cullen, describing players like him as the "soul and heart" of the club. Cullen, a Swansea academy product, has been consistently praised by managers for his attitude and contribution despite facing regular social media criticism. The 26-year-old Wales international featured in Swansea's recent 2-2 draw with Middlesbrough in the Championship.

Matos drew comparisons between Cullen and Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, who was sent off in Italy's World Cup play-off final loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina. The Swansea head coach expressed frustration at the criticism directed at Cullen, particularly following Wales' World Cup play-off semi-final defeat to Bosnia-Herzegovina last month. Matos insisted the club cannot be dragged down by the weight of history as they sit 15th in the Championship table.

Cullen's versatility has seen him deployed in various positions, including an unfamiliar starting role on the right flank against Middlesbrough. Despite the criticism, Matos emphasized Cullen's importance to the team's fabric and culture. The coach's comments underscore the ongoing tension between traditional football values and modern social media scrutiny, with Matos positioning Cullen as a player who embodies the qualities Swansea City should celebrate rather than criticize.