Ashley Williams reveals that it was the passion of Roberto Martinez that put the Swans ahead of Cardiff

The Welsh international moved with minutes to spare before the loan window closed - choosing to favour the Liberty Stadium over Ninian Park - and he says that much of that was down to Roberto selling him the club and his ideas.

There was also rumoured interest from Leeds United but this appears to be no more than speculation on the papers part with the two South Wales league clubs being the only confirmed interest reported anywhere.

Williams was an unused substitute this weekend as the Swans moved seven points clear at the top of the league with victory over Hartlepool and if three results go their way this week then Championship football will be confirmed before the weekend is out.  However, with just a maximum of three wins needed from their six remaining games to secure that feat, Williams is comfortable that he has made the right choice as he looks to progress his career and increase his Welsh chances.

Speaking in today's Western Mail he said “The manager was a massive pull in my decision to come to Swansea

“All the reports I got back about him were brilliant and I just wanted to get down here.

“The club likes to play a brand of football that I enjoy and it’s just a massive club that’s doing well at the minute.

“Both Cardiff and Swansea are massive clubs. But, for one reason or another, I ended up in Swansea which I’m happy about. There’s been talk of this move for ages now. But I just tried to get on with my football at Stockport and, as it happens, I’ve been able to join Swansea.

“I thought all the boys were brilliant, as they probably have been all season,” he said.

“I can’t fault them, they are a good set of lads and they have made me feel really welcome. I feel part of the team already.

“I was a little bit disappointed not to play, but the gaffer can’t really select me when the boys are doing so well.

“The boys at the back, under difficult conditions, have done really well so, while I’m disappointed not to play, I understand why. I didn’t expect to get in the team straight away. The boys have got where they are by playing so well and I’m just coming to enjoy myself and try to get into the team.

“The manager hasn’t said how much I will play. We’ll just have to wait and see.

“But I’ve definitely arrived at the right time. I couldn’t have picked a better time to join the club.”

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