Tate signed permanently for the Swans in January 2004

Swansea City defender Alan Tate has signed a new four-year contract with the club.

Former Manchester United trainee Tate, 26, initially joined the Swans in 2002 on loan, helping the club to Football League survival.

He returned at the end of 2003 before making his move permanent in February 2004 and has enjoyed two promotions.

"To have someone like Alan signing a long-term deal...is a step in the right direction," said chairman Huw Jenkins.

"We are working our way through the current squad to make sure we have commitment from our players for the next few years.

"We are starting to settle things down at the club after the changes during the close season.

"I think we all know about Alan's commitment and loyalty to the club and the fact he is happy living in the city, and that's nice to see."

606: DEBATE Give your views on Tate's new contract

Vice-captain Tate was signed by former manager Brian Flynn when the Swans were struggling at the foot of League Two.

He, along with Leon Britton and Kristian O'Leary, are the only survivors of that squad.

Tate has enjoyed promotions from Leagues Two and One into the Championship along with a Football League Trophy win and worked under three managers since Flynn.

Throughout, Tate has been a first team regular and after joining initially as a centre-back he has played mostly at right and left-back, but has also had spells in midfield as well as two appearances in goal.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version