Roque's aiming to repay the faith

16th December
First team

Roque Mesa is keen to repay the faith shown in him by Paul Clement after finding his feet at Swansea City.

The Spaniard endured a slow start to his Swans career, starting just once in the opening 12 games of the Premier League season after making an £11 million move from Las Palmas in the summer.

However, Roque Mesa is beginning to make his mark having played in four of the last five games, with his tenacious displays in the heart of midfield making him a crowd favourite at the Liberty.

And the 28-year-old admits he has slowly adapted to life in SA1.

“It was a difficult start for me because it was very different to Spain – the lifestyle, the weather, the football,” he said.

“I have adapted to those aspects, though, and I am ready to play and show what I am about.

“I like Swansea and so do my wife and kids. We are all very happy and comfortable here, and that is very important to me.

“I am happy and I am feeling good. The manager has shown faith in me and I would like to repay him for that."

Another thing that Mesa will have to get used to is the busy festive period in the Premier League, with the Swans' trip to Everton on Monday marking the start of a run of five games in 15 days.

Nevertheless, the midfielder is hopeful that he and his team-mates can use the busy spell to their advantage for the sake of the Jack Army.

“Of course, in Spain there is a break over Christmas. But here it is a very important time for football with a lot of games,” he added. “I like that because I want to play, play and play.

“Christmas is a great time for families, and although it is different for footballers as we play over this period, it is great for the parents and children to go to the games together and enjoy themselves.

“I know playing so many games over Christmas is a big tradition here and the fans love it, which is the main thing. 

“I’m sure if we can pick up three points against Everton, and then against Crystal Palace, then it will be the best Christmas gift any Swansea supporter could ask for.”