As the final whistle blew at Wembley the name of Kemy Agustien was probably the last name you would have put on the starting sheet for the Premier League clashes
As the final whistle blew at Wembley the name of Kemy Agustien was probably the last name you would have put on the starting sheet for the Premier League clashes
But such is the turn around of fortunes for the midfielder he is pretty much nailed on to start at the Ethiad Stadium after a good pre season that has convinced Brendan Rodgers that he has a part to play in the Swans top flight campaign.
And as he prepares for a likely spot alongside Leon Britton in midfield, Agustien says he will take it as a massive positive
If I do play, I've worked hard for it, I've tried my best to get into the team
"If it happens, I will close my eyes for a minute and think about everything that has happened over the last couple of years.
"I will take it as a positive.
"It's not easy to stay focused when you come in injured, then get fit and don't really get a chance
"I'm always a positive person. You need to keep smiling and know when the team needs you, you'll be there.
"I wasn't really involved, but as a team we did a good job — that's the important thing.
"Credit to the gaffer and the team because they kept me motivated.
"I learned a lot last year, both on and off the field. My mentality was there because maybe three or four years ago my mentality was totally different."
Now the Willemstad-born player insists his focus is totally on football after a demanding close season of preparation.
"I trained all through the summer and I think it's going to pay off because I feel fit and ready to go," he said.
"This season everyone starts from zero and I just want to take my chances.
"I think the gaffer and the whole team have confidence in me so I'll try to pay them back. I came to Swansea because I like the way they play football and I never regretted the move.
"I will never let the club down because they are not just my team-mates, they are real good friends as well.
"There are going to be difficult games so anyone who is not in the team has to make sure they are with the team.
"We are a team together — you might play today and the next day be sitting on the bench. The only thing that matters now is that we stay up and show everybody that we're Swansea City.
"I think we will surprise loads of people. That's the confidence and belief we have in each other," he added.
"I believe in the team and the staff and we have to do it together."