This week we're throwing it back again to yet another Swansea legend that is, Alan Curtis. The Swans will move on, but the memories of Alan playing at The Vetch Field will live on forever.
Alan dedicated a lengthy service to the club, from scoring legendary goals to becoming coach, caretaker manager, and now honorary president. He was given an MBE for services to Welsh football.
As touched upon in last week's podcast with Wyndham Evans, Alan was a key player in the club’s rise through the football leagues. Not only did Alan have an impact on the pitch, but within the dressing room too, delivering a passionate and iconic speech to players before the 4-2 win over Hull which saved the club's football league status.
After a number of seasons at The Vetch Field, Alan signed for Leeds United in the First Division for a Third Division record of £350,000. During a season and a half at Leeds, Alan played and scored in the UEFA Cup, as well as sustaining a serious knee injury in Jan 1980 after a collision with Peter Shilton, putting his career in doubt. Shortly after Alan returned to the Swans before moving onto Southampton.
Although many consider Curtis a die-hard Swans legend, scoring 110 goals in 412 appearances, it is important not to overlook Alan’s other achievements in Welsh football. He represented his country 35 times and played 153 matches for Cardiff City scoring 13 times for the club. This included an important goal in the 1988 Welsh Cup Final against Wrexham at the Vetch Field.