Swansea City havce confirmed the signing of Southend midfielder Mark Gower
The midfielder has been signed on a free transfer as he is out of contract at Southend and, despite early mutterings from Steve Tilson that he would not make the move, Gower has elected to join the Swansea Championship Crusade.
Swansea are reported as winning the race ahead of competition from other Championship and League One clubs, one of which was believed to be Blackpool.
Speaking to the official site, Roberto said "We are excited to capture a player with Championship experience; a player who has played a very important and successful role at Southend over the last five years
"The fact that he's chosen to join us with the best years of his career ahead of him is extremely pleasing. It shows how far we've come as a football club.
"We all felt, including Mark, he needed a new chapter and challenge in his career and the fans should be excited that they'll be seeing his talents on display at the Liberty.
"He can play on both wings, and even in the centre, and is very talented on the ball. He's got a fantastic delivery and is great in one on one situations.
"He has the gift to win you a football game.''
Gower is likely to be a direct replacement for Andy Robinson and his capture will also go some way to provide cover for the loss of Paul Anderson who opted not to return to the Liberty by signing for FEC yesterday