Rodgers: Pratley Is Still Fully Committed To Swans

Brendan Rodgers has defended Darren Pratley after the midfielder has received criticism from the fans for a lack of commitment to the club.

The midfielder hasn't had a great reception in recent home games as many supporters aren't happy with his poor performances and lack of commitment - after refusing to extend his contract.

We've been used to watching full-of-energy and 100% effort performances from Pratley since he joined from Fulham, but lately he's been lacking that quality and committed attitude he's shown for the past 4 years.

Swansea City could look to cash in on Pratley in the January transfer window to avoid losing him for nothing at the end of the season.

Despite of all this though, Rodgers has defended the 25 year-old and says he's still fully committed:

'The kid has come in for a lot of stick, but I think it's worth pointing out that if we go back to the summer, he wanted to sign (a new contract) here,'

'But it went on and on and on, it didn't quite get agreed, and it was put to bed so he could concentrate on his football. He wanted to put it on the back-burner and concentrate on doing his very best for Swansea City.

'This is player who was top-scorer last year, and no-one can argue with his commitment in the last couple of seasons.

'Now all of a sudden we are in a situation where people are starting to question his commitment, but he is a kid who wants to be here — simple.

'I know that better than anyone because I talk to him and I see it every day in training.'

'For me nothing has changed,'

'Darren wants to give his all for this club. One of the things he said to me when I first came in was that he owes this club a lot. The last thing he wants to do is walk out so the club don't get a penny for him.

'He has a real affinity with this club — he loves being here and he loves the supporters.

'But he is in the last year of his contract and he has to think longer term.

'The supporters have loved him as he has loved them and, if we are going to progress as a team, we need the supporters behind everyone.

'We have to work on towards the end of the season — we are a happy camp and we must try to keep it that way.

'Let's stick together and see where it takes us.'

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