Swansea appoint Garry Monk on permanent deal

GARRY Monk’s first job as permanent manager of Swansea will be to stamp his authority on the squad in order to take the club forward.

Garry Monk: Three-year deal. Picture: Getty

After three months in caretaker charge following the dismissal of Michael Laudrup, the 35-year-old can now look to plan for the longer term having signed a three-year contract. He has been rewarded for securing the club’s Premier League status for another season and is now looking to build for the future.

Monk, who has been at the club for a decade as a player, is confident he can take the Swans in the right direction, after concerns over Laudrup’s leadership led to the Dane being dismissed in early February.

“It is the proudest moment of my career. I’m honoured the club thinks so highly of me to give me this chance,” he 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.

“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.”

Monk had a difficult start to his fledgling managerial career but, with the Swans threatened by relegation, a 3-0 victory over fellow strugglers Norwich City came just at the right time and further wins over Newcastle and Aston Villa ensured they were safe.

“Garry represents all the strong values we hold so dearly as a football club and everyone is looking forward to working with him,” said Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins.