400 not out for Leon

30th March

Leon Britton was delighted to cap off his 400th league game for the Swans with a convincing 3-0 win over Norwich in the Barclays Premier League.

The 31-year-old was at the heart of Swansea's midfield as they clinched a crucial three points at the Liberty, courtesy of a brace from Jonathan de Guzman and a strike from Wayne Routledge.

And it's fair to say that a lot has changed for the Swans and Britton since the pass-master made his debut 11 years ago in an away fixture against Exeter City in the fourth tier of English football.

Since that day, Britton has experienced many memorable moments with the Swans, including promotion campaigns, Capital One Cup success and a European adventure.

When he stepped out to make his first appearance for the Swans against Exeter, Britton would have never dreamed he would be where he is today.

"It's been a long journey from 11 years ago when I first arrived," said Britton. "After making my debut, I never thought I would still be here 400 league games later playing in the Premier League and in the Europa League. It's been a great journey.

"When you look at where we've come from, playing in Europe this season in fantastic games against the likes of Valencia and Napoli, it's been a great experience. It shows how far this club has come.

"Times have changed dramatically. We were in League Two, fighting for our lives at the Vetch Field, and now we are in the Premier League with fantastic players and being able to spend £12 million on a striker. 

"It's worlds apart from when I first arrived, and it's been so enjoyable to be a part of the journey over the past 11 years. Hopefully there's a few more years left in me yet."

But despite his milestone moment, Britton insists the most important thing to him was picking up a crucial three points.

"It was very nice, but the most important thing was for us to get the three points," he added. 

"We played very well, got three goals and kept a clean sheet, so everyone is delighted.

"We played a lot of good football. It was the third game in a week for us, following two very tough away games, and we finished it very strongly.

"In the last two home games we've been 1-0 at half-time, had chances to make it two but didn't take them. The second goal before half-time was a big difference for us.

"My next door neighbour text me before the game to congratulate me on my 400th game. I'm delighted that she did that and to get the three points. It's been a really good day for myself."