Alan Tate

Number 5

D.O.B.

2nd October 1982

Birthplace

Easington

Height

6'1

Weight

13st 5lbs

Nickname

Beaker

Position

Right back

Signed

06/02/2004

Fee

Free

Former Clubs

Man Utd

International

none

Pen Pic

Alan Tate already had 2 successful loan spells at the Vetch before he finally signed permanantly in the 2003/2004 season under former-manager, Brian Flynn.

His first loan spell saw him play a huge part in the battle against Football League relegation and he was the type of defender that the Swans needed at the time.

He showed superb composure on the ball, confidence and just overall quality and defensive skills. It didn't take long before he was impressing the fans with many outstanding and consistent performances.

He returned to Old Trafford at the end of that season after celebrating Swansea's survival. It was no surprise however when Flynn attempted to bring him back for his 2nd loan spell, but United manager, Alex Fergerson said he wasn't available.

Tate did return for another spell however and his quality shone through once more. His last game at the Vetch saw him wear a t-shirt reading "One a Jack Always a Jack".

Alan Tate returned to Manchester United for the second time and it wasn't long after returning that he was back for the third time, this time on a permanent basis. Under Jackett, he didn't have a consistent run in the first team and he said that he was getting fed up of a lack of first team football.

He made the right back place his own in the 2005/06 season and with consistency and excellent performances, he won the Player of the Year award. He has been a consistent player for the club but was reprimanded in the wake of the Cardiff City flag incident after the LDV vans trophy final victory vs Carlisle United.

With the signing of Angel Rangel in 2007, Alan Tate found it difficult to get a place in the team, but his patience finally paid off in the 2008/2009 season when he came in to replace Marcos Painter at left back. He was out of position but he was just happy to play on a regular basis. He impressed and was a consistent performer in the 08/09 season in the Championship.

Tate has continued to show his dedication, commitment and loyalty to the Swans, and not only that but his ability to play in different positions. Despite lacking pace and the fact that he is right footed, he's played a number of games at left back and is a solid replacement in Neil Taylor's absence. He also offers a good back at centre back.

He's performed well during the 2011 pre-season but he still may find it tough to get a regular first team place in the back four in the Premiership.