Planet Swans ArchivesThe Bangor product is nearing the end of his current deal – it runs out in June – and after a few substitute appearances and a Wales cap he wants to cap a hat-trick with a new contract for what he hopes will be Championship football next season.
OTJ was brought to Swansea in the summer of 2005 by then manager Kenny Jackett and played an important role at the start of that season which helped the Swans move towards the league summit. But it all went wrong on New Years Eve and an injury at Swindon saw the start of a Swansea decline that ended in play off heartbreak. Since then it has been one long battle for the midfielder but recent times have seen an upturn in fortunes as he wears a Swansea shirt again and a Wales shirt for the first time.
And he is hoping that he can do enough to persuade his manager – former midfield partner Roberto Martinez – to offer him a new deal in the summer. Speaking in today's News of the World he said "I was delighted to play my first game for Wales at long last. Now I'm looking to get another deal at Swansea.
"My contract ends this season and I don't want to leave, so I need to prove my worth to the gaffer. I'm hoping to get a run of games to impress him and help the club get promotion to the Championship.
"When I was injured Roberto told me I was part of his plans which was nice to hear. But the bottom line is I've got to produce the goods for him. I've got to show him I'm good enough for his side. I'm knocking on his door but it's up to him whether I play or not.
"I want to stay at Swansea. It's a very good club, one that is on the way up. From a personal point of view I'm very happy I've built some good relationships.
"Everything is going well. I really hope something can be sorted out. But I can't worry about a new contract right now. I've been out a long time and I need to get my career back on track.
"While I was injured Kenny Jackett left and Roberto came in. The football he wants us to play is totally different to Kenny and there's also been a big turnover of players in the last year. The next few weeks are going to be a hard challenge."
