Leon Britton

Number 7

D.O.B.

16/09/1982

Birthplace

South London

Height

168cm

Weight

63.56kg

Position

Midfielder

Signed

05/06/2003

Fee

Free

Former Clubs

Arsenal Youth and West Ham United

Pen Pic

Leon Britton became an instant fans favourite when he first joined the club on loan from West Ham United in December 2002. His pace and skill causes a lot of problems for the opposition and although he is significantly smaller than the rest of the team, he isn't afraid to get stuck in.

He firstly arrived at the Vetch on loan from West Ham United, after impressing in a four day trial, within just 3 weeks, his loan deal was extended for the whole season and due to the hammers' relegation from the Premiership, they were willing to release him on a free and Leon signed a new 2 year contract.

He was the most expensive 16 year-old at the time as West Ham paid Arsenal £400,000 for his services. He also won the PFA Player of The Month award in February 2003.

Kenny Jackett looked to add a physical approach to his midfield rather than a pacey and skillful one that Flynn adopted when he was here and Leon was another player who's Swansea future was in doubt as a result.

Britton was one of Swansea's best performers during the 2005/06 season and was close to winning the Player of the Year award. He was ever present on the right wing and always causes trouble with his skill and pace.

Under Roberto Martinez, he adapted well to a new role in the side, a ball-winning central midfielder. Despite his size, he was excellent and again was a strong contender for the fans' player of the year award in 08/09. Leon Britton has proved to be a superb, consistent performer in his 7 and-a-half year spell at Swansea City. A player who has easily adapted to the different positions he's played in for us over the years, whether it's an attacking central midfield role, out wide on the flank or a more defensive position under Paulo Sousa.

He rejected to have new contract talks at the start of the 2009/2010 season which put his future at the club severely in doubt. In June 2010 he opted to join Sheffield United on a free transfer, and rejected offers from Premiership clubs.