By Gareth Vincent
South Wales Evening Post

Garry Monk has revealed his hunger to sign a long-term Swansea City contract. Boss Roberto Martinez declared earlier this week that he wants Monk to captain Swansea for years to come.

And the former Southampton centre-back has responded by declaring his willingness to discuss fresh terms.

Monk is currently contracted to Swansea until the summer of 2009 after triggering an appearance clause in the one-year deal he signed 12 months ago.

But both club and player are keen on a new improved agreement.

"I've said all along that this is the club where I want to be and nothing has changed," Monk said.

"I spoke to the gaffer last summer when I signed a one-year deal.

"We both said the contract wasn't ideal, but I understood why the club offered what they did and felt if I could come back strong I'd get my rewards in the end.

"I think I did okay last season and now the gaffer has pulled me and said he wants to reward me with a new contract.

"That's very pleasing for me and, hopefully, we can come to an agreement which is right for me and right for the club."

Monk was delighted to hear Martinez tipping him to thrive in the Championship.

And he says the prospect of leading Swansea over the next few seasons fills him with relish.

"Just to be going into the Championship with Swansea is great," he added, "but being captain as well means there's nothing better. I love being at this club.

"I'm settled here now and we're going up a division, so why would I want to move?"

Many Swansea fans are hoping to hear something similar coming from the mouth of Andy Robinson as questions over whether he will sign a new Liberty Stadium contract continue.

"I've spoken to him about it since the season finished and I know he wants nothing more than to stay," Monk said. "He has been through a lot with this club and doesn't want to leave but, as with me, any deal has to be right for both parties.