Swansea put their faith in Monk

Swansea have appointed Garry Monk as their new permanent manager on a three-year contract, the English Premier League club announced Wednesday. The former Swans defender had been in caretaker charge since the Welsh club sacked Denmark great Michael Laudrup in February. And with Monk succeeding in his key task of preserving Swansea's top-flight status -- they are six points clear of the relegation zone ahead of Sunday's final round of matches -- he has now been given the job on a full-time basis. "It is the proudest moment of my career. I'm honoured the club thinks so highly of me to give me this chance," Monk told swanseacityfc.net. "It's the opportunity of a lifetime -- and one I fully intend to take. I have had a taste of the job for the last three months and it's something I've really enjoyed," the 35-year-old added. "Now I'm really looking forward to the next phase in my life and the club's progression. "I'll be looking to stamp my authority on the squad and the club -- and take it forward. "I have a plan in my mind and with the help of the chairman and the board how to implement it. "I have been given a massive responsibility to manage this proud football club but I have always been a person that enjoys and relishes responsibility, so I am looking forward to the challenge. "I have been at this football club for 10 years and I know what Swansea City means to everyone in the community -- and beyond. "That's what will drive me on to produce a successful team that plays attractive and attacking football. I want everyone connected to this club to be proud of the team," added Monk, who will be assisted by current coach Josep (Pep) Clotet. Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins welcomed Monk's full-time appointment by saying: "We are delighted to confirm Garry as our new first-team manager. "As a board of directors we carefully considered our next step because it was a very important decision for our football club. "But having gone through that process we unanimously agreed that the timing was right for Garry to be offered the job on a permanent basis. "As we look forward to our fourth season in the Premier League we all agreed that we needed to get back to basics and reinforce the principles that have brought us success in recent years. "Garry represents all the strong values we hold so dearly as a football club and everyone is looking forward to working with him. "We have all been impressed with his work-rate and commitment since taking over the reins in February and how he adapted in very difficult circumstances to secure the points we needed to remain in the top-flight. "Garry will work with the current staff to refocus and improve the playing squad over the summer in order to build a strong, competitive team for another big challenge that lies ahead next season." Source: AFP