Joel Ward | I am really excited to start a new adventure at Swansea City
Joel Ward is excited for a “new adventure” in his career after joining Swansea City.
The 36-year-old defender has signed for the Swans on a deal through to the end of the 2025-26 season, and will provide an additional option for head coach Vitor Matos in his defensive ranks.
Ward is vastly experienced and a proven top-flight performer. Having started his career with Portsmouth, he went on to spend 13 years with Crystal Palace, establishing himself as a fan favourite and club stalwart at Selhurst Park.
He made 363 appearances in total for the Eagles, with more than 300 of those coming in the Premier League, and he signed off by being part of their FA Cup success last season.
Now, he is eager for a new challenge as he joins the Swans.
“It’s brilliant to be here, I’ve been looking forward to this time and being back involved in the game. I’m looking forward to a new challenge and a new adventure,” he said.
“I feel very welcomed so far from the group and the staff and everyone involved.
“I think the gaffer has a clear vision of where he wants to take this club, I think he’s got a great foundation in the group that he’s got, but also in how this club has been historically.
“The training ground and the stadium, the fans behind it, his vision of where he wants to take it, his plan is very clear and it aligns with me because I want to work with someone that has that desire to take this club to new heights again.
“I am hungry to be involved and try and make a positive impact. As you get a little bit older, you realise you have an impact on the pitch and also off the pitch in the way in which you set the standards and conduct yourself.
“You can lean on your experience from games and help younger players coming through or players who might not have played many games.
“You’re also never too old to learn, and I think I see this as an opportunity to learn in a different way. I’ve been fortunate to have worked under some great managers over the years, and I’m looking forward to working under the gaffer now.
“Nothing beats being out on the pitch, and wherever I am asked to go and play I will give everything for the team. That has never changed for me.
“I’ve played at left-back, right-back and centre-back and more. I always see it as a challenge and an opportunity to learn and develop.”
Ward also revealed that he had spoken to former Swans Wayne Routledge and Marc Guehi about the club when the opportunity came to make the move to SA1, and that the pair had nothing but positive things to say.
“First and foremost, they spoke about how much they loved the club and loved their time here, and I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to someone who’s been at Swansea who hasn’t enjoyed their time here.
“For me, that was a big factor. There’s a great group of lads here, and the facilities available to us. I got a great feeling as I came through the doors.
“Speaking to the lads, it was a no brainer to come down the M4 and enjoy a new adventure.”