Tottenham have sold their full-back Kyle Naughton to Swansea City for a reported fee of A?5m.
Naughton, who joined Tottenham from Sheffield United in 2009 for a fee of similar range, said that the opportunity of first team football attracted him to Swansea. In addition, he was impressed with the Welsh side’s style of play.
“I’m really excited, I can’t wait to get going and get some games under my belt,” Naughton said.
“At Tottenham Kyle Walker was out for a long time, so I was playing. Kyle’s back now and they signed one or two other players, so I just thought it would be best for me and maybe the club if we went in different directions.
“I’ve watched Swansea so many times, I’ve played here so many times against them and their style of football is what really attracted me. I like always getting it down and passing it, and that was one of the main attractions for me.”
Naughton also added that despite playing a few times on the left for Tottenham, he is more suited to the role on the other side (as a right back), “I’m definitely a right-back. I can see why you’ve asked that, I’ve played a few games on the left side at Tottenham but I’m definitely a right-back and that’s where I will want to be playing. I can fill in at left-back if asked, but I am more of a right-back.”
Swansea manager Gary Monk was pleased with the 26-year old’s capture and believes that he has good pedigree to succeed at Swansea. Naughton had appeared 75 times for Tottenham and is a good attacking full back with pace; something that Swansea have lacked. With Neil Taylor and Naughton as their full backs, the Swansea fans can expect some good forays from the back.
Gary Monk said, “Kyle’s experienced at this level and brings Premier League pedigree. He’s a good age for us and we look for players who want to prove a point and are hungry to do well. These players don’t always become available, but its testament to the club and how far we’ve come and what we’re trying to do.”
Tottenham had signed American right back DeAndre Yedlin in the summer and decided to recall him as soon as the January transfer window opened. The 21-year old will provide competition to first team regular Kyle Walker after Naughton’s departure.