Match Preview - Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion - Kristian O'Leary Testimonial Match

Last updated : 01 August 2008 By Tycoch Jack


Newly promoted Premiership team, West Bromwich Albion, are the visitors to the Liberty Stadium on Saturday afternoon, kick-off 3pm, as the Swans opponents in Kristian O'Leary's Testimonial game.

Kristian has been with the Swans for 14 years, and has played well over 300 games for the club. In his time with the Swans he has seen 14 different managers take charge, Roberto Martinez making it 15. He made his debut under Jan Molby against Bradford City in 1996, a game in which the Swans lost 5-1.Speaking to the Swans Official site, O'Leary said:

"It only seems like yesterday that I first joined the club as a 14 year old," "It's hard to imagine that was over 15 years ago. "I've certainly seen my fair share of managers come and go, probably more than most. At one time at the Vetch we seemed to be changing managers every few weeks.

"It's never an easy or nice time when a manager comes or goes because there is always a lot of apprehension. At the end of the day, every manager is different and you just have to wait and see whether you are in their plans or not.''

"There have been times over the years when things haven't worked out for me. But that's when you test yourself,'' he adds.

"Some give up when the going gets tough, while others just get on with it. That's me - I get on with it. I train no different whether I'm in the side or not. I'm a great believer in that because if you work hard enough your time will eventually come.''

"Everyone who knows me will tell you that I work just as hard on the training field whether I'm in the team or not. I'm a firm believer that as a professional footballer your attitude has got to be spot on all the time.

"Yes you can look for answers as to why it's not happening for you, but if you look too deep it can cut you apart.

"The only answer is to keep working hard, wait for your chance and try and take it when it comes.''

"To celebrate my testimonial is a proud moment for me, my family and friends. But there's nothing as proud as pulling on a Swans shirt, even 12 years on from making my League debut.''

Kristian certainly deserves this testimonial game, despite some supporters feeling to the contrary, because in my opinion he has always given the Swans 100% commitment every time he plays, and as a local boy has always show passion for his beloved Swans.

The Swans will be without Gorka Pintado on Saturday after he limped off in the first-half against Chester, a game which the Swans won 3-2. Pintado may also be absent for our game at Charlton on August 9.

West Bromwich Albion are expected to field a very strong side on Saturday, which will include new signing from Aston Villa Luke Moore.

Let's hope that Swans fans will turn out in numbers to support Kristian and the Swans.