Planet Swans ArchivesOrlandi may have missed out on the greatest day in Swansea City's history when he sat out the play off final against Reading but a new two year deal in the summer has made up for that as he prepares with the squad for their Premier League assault.
And he is determined to play his part in that assault as he explained to the Western Mail.
“Not being out there that day was hard,” he said when thinking back to that glorious day in May
“Brendan actually texted me before the game and I went to his room to see him. He said he respected me and wanted to tell me before the team knew that I wouldn’t be involved.
“Obviously, at that moment, it was very hard to take.
“But I am a team player and I told him not to worry, enjoy the game, win the game and next time it will be a different case.
“But I can’t lie and say it wasn’t really tough to take because a lot of friends and family had travelled to London because I thought I would at least be on the bench.
“I had always dreamed about playing in a game like that. But it happened. I had to be professional and take it.
“But I didn’t enjoy the game at all – not just because I wasn’t out there, because I had our analyst sat next to me and every time Reading had the ball he’d punch me. I went home with bruises on my leg and arm.
“When they scored the second and then had the chance to make it 3-3 it was terrible – when you aren’t on the pitch and able to do anything about it you just suffer.
“But after the game I think I was the happiest man in the team. I missed a cup final, but I know every game will be a cup final next season and I want to be a part of that.
“The club and the gaffer have shown me faith and I’m very happy for that,” said Orlandi. “I have a great relationship with Brendan, especially when I was injured and couldn’t play last season.
“We were second in the league when I was playing. I got injured against Reading, came back and got injured again in the cup against Leyton Orient. I didn’t play again.
“I knew I wouldn’t because the team were flying, but we have always been honest with each other.
“And if he said the style of the Premier League will suit me then I am very happy. It will give me more willingness to help the team out.
“Is he right? Let’s wait and see. The rhythm and pace is higher so if I can adapt to that then I believe I can compete technically at this level. Hopefully it will work out like that.
“I want to get into the team and I will try, but I know it will be very hard. But I have signed a two-year contract and I am very confident."
