Routledge seals Swansea switch

Swansea City have confirmed the signing of winger Wayne Routledge from fellow English Premier League side Newcastle United.

Routledge, 26, became manager Brendan Rodgers’ second signing in as many days after Middlesbrough’s Leroy Lita also joined the Welsh club.

The man who spent half of last season on-loan at QPR said on Thursday he was excited about the challenge that lay ahead in trying to avoid relegation.

“Having watched Swansea last season, I think everyone would agree that they were the best footballing side in the Championship,” Routledge told Swansea City’s official website.

“It’s going to be a difficult first season in the Premier League, it’s going to be tough.”

“But everyone is confident and looking forward to it. After all, playing in the Premier League is what you dream of. I’m excited about it.”

Routledge, Swansea’s fifth signing of this transfer window, will wear the number 15 shirt and could make his debut against Real Betis in a friendly on Saturday.

He said he was impressed by Rodgers when they met prior to reaching the agreement.

“I’ve had a good chat with the manager and he really impressed me,” Routledge said.

“I had heard a lot of good things about him and the chat only reinforced my belief that moving to Swansea was the right thing to do.”