Roque Mesa - the story behind the moustache

It’s soon to be the most recognised moustache in the Premier League, but Roque Mesa hopes his move to Swansea City may put him in the market for some shaving foam.

The Swans’ third summer recruit arrives at the Liberty from Las Palmas sporting a moustache which will surely fill some column inches.

Yet he hopes it will be his football that will do the talking for him and, eventually, lead to the end of his facial hair.

“It’s a small promise with my wife because I told her I wouldn’t shave my moustache until I get called up by the Spanish national team,” explains Roque Mesa.

“What started as a story has become a part of my personal image and nowadays I have it as a part of my image.”

Roque Mesa only needs to look at the success of fellow Spaniard Michu, who earned international honours for then world champions Spain in 2013 due to his sensational form for the Swans.

The success of Michu coupled with Swansea’s strong Spanish influence over the last 14 years also gives the 28-year-old a positive feeling as he prepares for life in South West Wales.

He joins a squad which includes the likes of Fernando Llorente – a World Cup winner with Spain – and Angel Rangel, who has spent the last 10 years as a Swan.

Their presence will undoubtedly help him settle, but Roque Mesa also spelled out his strong desire to brush up on his English language and become embedded in the team and city.

“The fact that there are Spanish players here is very good for me - Swansea has a long tradition with Spanish players, which makes settling in easier,” he adds.

“But I hope to learn English as soon as possible not just for adapting to the team but to life in general, to Swansea.

“Within three months I want to be able to speak English fluently. It is something I am determined to do.

“Hopefully it will help my performances on the pitch further and bring more to the team.”