I owe it all to Swans, says award-winner Joe

JOE Allen hailed Swansea City after claiming two awards at the annual Football Association of Wales awards night.

Allen's performances for Swansea helped him clinch the player of the year and club player of the year trophies at a presentation evening in Cardiff on Monday.

The Narberth product has since completed a £15 million move to Liverpool but still reflects on the time with his local club fondly.

Allen joined Swansea as a nine-year-old and progressed through the youth ranks to make his first-team debut eight years later.

Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk

myprint-247

View details

Print voucher

Our heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.

Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk

Contact: 01858 468192

Valid until: Sunday, May 26 2013

"I've followed Swansea very closely, they're a club who will always be in my heart," said the 22-year-old.

"I've got a lot of friends there and without that club I wouldn't be where I am so I hope they have a successful season.

"They're obviously the first result I look out for and I can't see that changing."

Liverpool have suffered a difficult start to life under Brendan Rodgers, while Swansea are also struggling for form.

Swansea started the season well with victories against Queens Park Rangers and West Ham, but have since taken just one point from the last 12 on offer.

Despite that blip, Allen is confident Michael Laudrup's side won't be worrying about relegation in seven months' time.

"In a perfect world I want Liverpool to do as well as possible and then Swansea not be too far behind," said the midfielder. "I know the Swansea squad inside out and with the players they've got and the ones that have been added, I'm sure they'll be fine and can have a season to be proud of."

Allen picked up his two trophies after a sensational first season in the Premier League.

The Welsh international thrived as Swansea returned to the top flight after a 28-year absence.

"I'm thrilled, shocked. I never thought for one minute I'd make the nominations, let alone win," added Allen. "It's definitely been exciting and memorable, there have been so many landmarks in my football career.

"It's all new to me playing for a club like Liverpool, but I've enjoyed my time so far. The results don't really reflect performance, but hopefully that will change soon."

Stephen Ware