By Alex Fisher
18 Jul 2011 22:38:00
Joe Allen,Swansea City
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Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed influential central midfielder Joe Allen has agreed a new contract with the club.
The Welsh international had one year left on his previous contract and Rodgers had been keen to tie the midfielder down to a longer deal as they prepare for their return to top flight football.
Allen was a regular for the Swans last season as they finished third in the Championship table and went on to win the play off final at Wembley against Reading, and Rodgers emphasised the importance the midfielder had on his side.
“Joe is fantastic. He is a player who at a lot of clubs would not be deemed big enough or strong enough,” he told Sky Sports.
“I was aware of his talent, but, while he is not at the same level, he is that Xavi or Iniesta type of player.
“He is 5ft 7in, not physically tall or great in stature but he is brilliant on the ball, has great intelligence and good mobility.”
Swansea’s summer started badly as goalkeeper Dorus de Vries rejected a new contract to sign for Wolves, but Allen is now the second player to sign a new contract at the Liberty Stadium recently after defender Neil Taylor put pen to paper on a four year contract last week and Rodgers admitted it was a huge confidence boost for everyone at the club.
“For me it was vital for the likes of him and Neil Taylor to re-sign,” he added.
“They feel I am a manager that can work with young players and these boys are big signings for us.
“Joe is a wonderful talent and I am delighted he has signed.”