Swansea City's new boss Paulo Sousa has promised to keep driving the club forward as a new era began at the Liberty Stadium today.

Sousa impressed the gathering media at a press conference this afternoon as chairman Huw Jenkins officially confirmed the Portuguese legend as the club's new manager on a three-year deal.

The former Portuguese international and double Champions League winner spoke about his hopes for the future and desire to keep the club moving forward.

"I am a special person with a lot of ambition,'' explained the 38 year old. "I aim to use all my knowledge, convictions and commitments to help the club progress and build strong foundations.

"I believe in my knowledge and what I can do for the club. My philosophy is the same as the club's and I am delighted to commit myself to Swansea because we agreed from the start about how we can get success in the Championship.

"I already know how much quality the players have. Now I need to see if they have the same will to succeed as last year.

"Everyone has been very friendly since I arrived and I feel the chairman and all the staff that work at the club are committed to supporting me.

"I expect commitment from everyone, because the club needs to be above every individual, from players, staff, manager, everyone; that is our philosophy.

"We want to build and important family here, where we can always be happy."

Sousa, who believes Swansea will start the season as one of at least 10 clubs in with a shout of promotion, will meet with all the current squad members once they report back for pre-season training on Thursday.

Swans chairman Huw Jenkins added: "We are very pleased and excited that Paulo has agreed to join us. We are really looking forward to developing the team and pushing on over the next few years."