South Wales Evening Post

He hasn't even caught a ball at Swansea City yet, but new arrival Artur Krysiak has seen enough to want an extension to his loan spell.

The Polish Under-19s keeper has endured an eventful first week at the Liberty Stadium, having joined Roberto Martinez's squad on Monday before being named among the substitutes for the Carling Cup victory over Cardiff City 24 hours later.

He will push first-choice keeper Dorus de Vries for his place in the team over the next three months, though Krysiak — in his first media interview since arriving — immediately focussed on extending his time at Swansea.

And remaining unfazed by the challenge of dislodging the Dutch shotstopper from his perch, Krysiak is determined to make his loan stint a soaring success.

He is no stranger to temporary moves having spent time at Gretna in the Scottish Premier League last season along with a brief stint at Conference outfit York earlier this term.

Krysiak played four times in Scotland and was also named in Setanta's team of the week while his move to York lasted only two games after dislocating his finger.

"Swansea is a big club and I think it's the best chance to promote myself," said Krysiak.

"I am very happy to be here and it will be a very good challenge to be the No. 1 keeper at Swansea.

"I could stay for a little bit longer than three months. Birmingham don't give me any problems to go on loan.

"I could be number two at Birmingham when Maik Taylor retires but if Roberto Martinez gives me a chance to be here longer I will take it and I will be fighting for the keeper shirt."

With de Vries having established himself in the League One title campaign last season, that could take some doing.

But Krysiak is not at the club to sit on the bench. It took only two hours for the Pole to impress then Blues keeper coach Nigel Spink to acclaim him as the real deal during a trial.

Academy director Terry Westley touted him as a player with Premier League mentality and quality while Martinez labelled him a future Polish international.

With his 6ft 4in frame, it is no surprise that Krysiak has a reputation for his physical presence and ability to deal with crosses.

So, with that said, de Vries can expect some tough competition from the teenage talent.

"I will do what I can do," said Krysiak, who has two years left of his contract at St Andrews.

"I will work hard and do my best when I get my chance in the reserves and maybe the cup games.

"I will try to play very, very well and put pressure on Dorus.

"I still want to stay even if I don't play because it is a challenge."

Within 24 hours of heading into the Liberty to sign on the dotted line, Krysiak was immediately handed a spot on the bench for Tuesday night's Welsh derby with Cardiff.

And the 19-year-old — who has been tracked by Martinez for several months — admitted the special atmosphere gave him an indication of the direction Swansea are heading in.

"It was amazing because I signed for the club and then I was involved in the derby," he said.

"Even though I was on the bench I could feel the atmosphere created by the supporters and that was special.

"It would be great if they create that atmosphere every week because it was the best I have experienced.

"In the league, Swansea are doing very well. I have seen a few games this season and they look a good team.

"They are a very young team and I think they will have a chance of promotion next year.

"At Birmingham they don't think of any other team - just promotion. But I look at Swansea and see that they have a lot of quality here.

"Every time I go somewhere on loan I want to show how good I am. I think I can get that opportunity here at Swansea."