Andrea Orlandi is a man who everyone has high hopes of this season and he is determined to succeed at the new level

Orlandi missed most of the second half of last season with an injury after signing for the Swans on transfer deadline day last August.

And that ended a promising start to his time in South Wales and he now carries some high hopes from supporters into the new season.

Offering some width on the left hand side, there is hope that Orlandi can provide the solution to a position that has so often left a void in the Swans side in recent years and there is enough to believe that he can surprise a few players with his performances this season.

Speaking via the official web site, Orlandi said "This is my best ever pre-season, not just from the enjoyment side of things, but also the fitness side.

"I really enjoyed the week in Sweden and to be back home in Spain for another week's work is fantastic.

"It's a good group environment and everyone is working well together. It's hard work, but enjoyable - and that's the main thing.

"After a disappointing season last year, I'm more determined to do well for myself and Swansea in the Championship.

"I'm training hard every day and improving my fitness every day. Having sampled British football last season, I knew I had to build up my physical strength to be successful.

"So while it was disappointing to pick up the knee injury, it gave me the chance to do a lot of work in the gym.

"I've put on three or four kilos and physically I feel a lot better; ready for the demands of the British game.

"I don't think the Swans fans saw the best of me last season and I'm determined to put that right in the Championship.

"As we edged closer to the title and promotion last season, I started watching a lot more Championship football on the TV. I thought a lot about the great teams we would be playing and the stadiums we would be visiting.

"Now I can't wait to get started.''

Photo: Action Images

Swansea City Polls