Cork reflects on his Swans stint

Jack Cork confirmed that the Swans will always have a special place in his heart, but his move to Burnley was one he had to make for footballing reasons.

The midfielder signed a four-year contract at Turf Moor tonight after a successful spell at the Liberty Stadium which saw him skipper the side on a regular basis.

“I have had a great two-and-a-half years at Swansea,’’ explained Cork from Burnley’s training camp in Ireland. “The last six months were difficult for everyone, but we got the job done in the end.

“I’m sad to go because I’ve met great people and friends that I will keep in contact with for the rest of my life.

“But it’s the next step and a new challenge for me. It was a footballing decision that was best for me. I had a good chat with the manager and with so many midfielders battling for three spots, he agreed as well.

“I’m joining a good club that I know well. I had a great relationship when I was on loan here and I hope I can help Burnley have a good season.

“I’m sure Swansea will be fine as well. I’m sure the lessons have been learnt from last season. We had a difficult start and it was hard. There is a good squad at Swansea, but a better start will be key again.

“It goes without saying that I wish Swansea all the very best for the future. The fans were great to me and my family and we all leave with fond memories of the club and the city.’’

Cork arrived at the Swans from Southampton in January 2015, and went on to make 83 appearances – scoring twice – during his time with the club.

He helped the Swans to their record points total in 2014-15, and later captained the club following the departure of Ashley Williams last summer.

Cork, who turned 28 last month, returns to Burnley having experienced two successful loan spells with the Clarets over a 15-month period.