Leon Britton: Midfielder 'not guaranteed' Swansea spot - Monk

Leon Britton joined Swansea from West Ham in 2002

Swansea City manager Garry Monk has denied he has given midfielder Leon Britton any assurances over playing time for the rest of the season.

Britton, 32 has turned down interest from the United States to stay and fight for his place at Swansea.

The ex-West Ham player revealed he made his decision following talks with Monk, who is adamant he had made no promised to the player.

"No one in that squad is guaranteed any playing time at all. They know that," he said.

"It's on merit and unfortunately at times with the squad we have now there's tough decisions and you have to leave players out of starting line-ups and squads that deserve to be included."

Britton is in his second spell at Swansea following a six month spell at Sheffield United in 2010 and has made nearly 500 appearances for the club.

He came off the bench to make his first appearance of the season in the 2-0 win over Newcastle United but his opportunities in recent seasons have been limited.

Monk said he was "very happy" with Britton's decision to remain with the club

"He's been brilliant for this club. He's a top player, a top professional and a top person," Monk added.

"I've said all along I didn't want Leon to go anywhere but we have so much respect for him that he's earned the right to make the decisions himself regarding his career."

Britton is in contention to play at Sunderland on Saturday but will face competition from a fully fit squad.

Fellow midfielder Ki Sung Yeung returned to full training this week after suffering a hamstring injury in the opening day draw at Chelsea.