Another big year ahead for Swansea City's Jordi Amat

10th July

The past 12 months will prove hard to top for Jordi Amat.
A first season in the Barclays Premier League and a successful Europa League adventure meant there was plenty to smile about for the young Spaniard following his switch from Espanyol last summer.
Off the pitch, getting wed to partner Melissa at the end of June topped off a year to remember for Amat.
A big year, but he hopes there will be plenty more to toast as he prepares for another season at the Liberty.
"It has been a very big year for me," said Amat, who met his wife Melissa three years ago while playing in the U20s World Cup back in her home nation of Colombia.
"I moved to a different country to play my football, which can be very challenging for footballers as they need to adapt.
"I grew up in every aspect - on the pitch, off the pitch - and now I am married.
"My wedding day was a very proud day for myself, my wife and our families. Angel, Chico and Canas were there while Alvaro (Vazquez) was one of my best men.
"We got married in a church and had the dinner at a beautiful castle, which is very typical in Barcelona.
"We managed to get to Paris for one night and see the Eiffel Tower, which was amazing, but we didn't have time for a proper honeymoon because pre-season training was starting."



With honeymoon on hold, pre-season plans are firmly on Amat's agenda with the Swans currently on their two-week tour in America.
Speaking from the club's base in Chicago, the 22-year-old revealed he feels a lot wiser following his first experience of life as a Swan.
A wise head on young shoulders, he managed 30 appearances in all competitions last season as he gave a good account of himself playing predominantly in central defence and, on the odd occasion, in midfield.
"I'm happy with the way everything is progressing, but I am still very young and I have a lot to learn," said Amat.
"Playing here in the Premier League has been amazing for me, and I think the experience of playing in the Europa League has benefited me too.
"I've enjoyed playing with the team and for the the fans - they have shown me a lot of support and I really appreciate that.
"Now I'm looking forward to a second season in the Premier League, and I think I'm a lot wiser on and off the pitch this year compared to the day I arrived.
"I played in a good amount of games last season, and hopefully I can continue to improve this season.
"I'm also looking to buy an apartment in Swansea with my wife. Last season she would come to Swansea once a month, and every time she was in the city we won so she must be lucky for us.
"So I expect us to win every game now that she will be living in the city!"