Lukasz thanks Swans

Lukasz Fabianski has thanked Swansea City for giving him the opportunity and belief to prove his Premier League quality.

The Polish keeper ended a four-year association at the Liberty Stadium today after his move to West Ham was completed for an undisclosed fee.

The 33-year-old, who is currently on World Cup duty with Poland, proved a huge success at the Swans since arriving on a free transfer from Arsenal.

His arrival in 2014 came on the back of a heroic performance to help the Gunners win the FA Cup, though Fabianski failed to become Arsene Wenger’s first-choice keeper.

But his time in SA1 proved to be a platform in which he could showcase his talent.

“The last four years have been fantastic for me on both a personal and professional level,” said Fabianski.

“Swansea are the club that gave me the opportunity to prove that I was a Premier League goalkeeper. I was the number two at Arsenal and there were questions whether I was good enough for this level.

“But Swansea gave me the belief I needed to play at the highest level as a first-choice keeper.

“That is something I will always be grateful for because who knows what may have happened if Swansea’ belief in me wasn’t there.

“It is such a pity that we couldn’t stay in the division. Everyone cares so much about the club around the city, and it was hard to accept after the Stoke match.”

Fabianski made a smooth transition from turning into Arsenal’s back-up keeper to the Swans’ no.1 stopper.

He was named players’ player of the year, best newcomer and away player of the year in his debut campaign as the Swans completed their best finish of eighth and highest points tally of 56 in 2014-15.

While his final season at the Liberty ended in relegation, he was still named supporters’ player of the year and away player of the season.

“My first full Premier League season at the club was unbelievable,” he added.

“It was Garry Monk’s first full season in charge and there were a few changes in the squad, but to finish eighth and get the club’s best points tally in the league was special.

“That success helped me grow as a keeper and made me feel that I belong at this level.”

Fabianski now returns to London to link up with a West Ham side that will be managed by former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

“There are always going to be question marks when a player makes a move, but I think it is a good move for me,” he said.

“West Ham are a big club and have exciting ambitions, while it is a new challenge for me.”