Finley Munroe is making a name for himself in League Two this season, with the Aston Villa loanee earning rave reviews for his performances at table-topping Swindon Town.
The 20-year-old left-sided talent came through Chelsea’s academy before Aston Villa swooped to bring him into their youth ranks four years ago. This summer marked a key step in his development as he left Villa Park on his first senior loan spell, joining Ian Holloway’s ambitious Swindon side for the 2025/26 campaign.
Finley Munroe admitted at the time that he was “delighted” to make the move — and the Kingston-born youngster has more than justified that enthusiasm. He has become a mainstay in Holloway’s side, starting the majority of league matches and helping the Robins surge to the summit of League Two.
The only time he has been absent in the league this term came last weekend through suspension. Otherwise, he has been one of Swindon’s most consistent performers, combining tireless energy with composure and quality on the ball.
Earlier this month, Munroe scored his first senior goal — a dramatic late winner in a 2-1 victory over Tranmere Rovers. His strike drew praise from former striker Jon Parkin, who labelled him a “revelation” during his analysis on What The EFL.
“They were missing Finley Munroe, who has been a revelation,” Parkin said while discussing Swindon’s 1-1 draw with Fleetwood. “He’s a left-sided player on loan from Aston Villa. He got that beautiful last-minute winner the other week — his first career goal, I believe.”
Manager Ian Holloway has also been full of admiration for his young loanee. Speaking after Munroe missed an FA Cup clash against Rotherham due to injury, the veteran boss joked that the youngster’s left foot is “so good he could open a tin of salmon with it.”
Munroe’s numbers back up the praise. So far this season, he has contributed one goal and six assists across all competitions, offering a constant outlet down the flank and delivering pinpoint service into the box.
With his suspension now served, Munroe is available for selection again as Swindon prepare to host Grimsby Town this weekend before facing Chesterfield away and Peterborough United in the EFL Trophy.
If his early months at the County Ground are anything to go by, Aston Villa may have unearthed another exciting prospect ready to make the step up in the near future.
