Swansea City is pleased to confirm that Leon Britton has been promoted to the new role of Sporting Director.

Britton was appointed as advisor to the board by new chairman Trevor Birch at the end of last season after retiring as a player in May 2018 with 536 appearances to his name over a 16-year period with the Swans.

The club legend, who played in all four divisions for the Swans after arriving, initially on loan, from West Ham in 2002, was heavily involved in the recruitment of new head coach Steve Cooper in the summer, together with the appointment of Andy Scott as head of recruitment.

Having worked very closely with Birch and Scott in the transfer market since his appointment, Britton has impressed in his new administrative role to such an extent that the Swans chairman was keen to increase his status and influence at the club.

“I have been extremely impressed with his knowledge, intelligence and passion for the game and the club,’’ explained Birch. “And Swansea City has already seen the benefits of his input with the footballing appointments we have made so far.

“Having been a former player here for so long - and respected so highly by the fans, staff and players - it made perfect sense to get him involved; initially as an advisor. Since then he and I have worked really well together, and he has struck up a great working relationship with Steve.