Swansea City manager Garry Monk has stated that captain Ashley Williams is one of the best defenders in the Premier League.

The Wales international has been an integral part of the Swans backline since they won promotion to the top flight in 2011.

Williams has been linked with moves to Liverpool and Arsenal in recent years, but Monk has praised the loyalty that the 31-year-old has shown to the Welsh outfit.

"For sure he's one of the best central defenders in the league," the Swansea boss told talkSPORT. "He's a great person and such a good leader for his club and country. He really takes that on board.

"In the last six or seven years he's been linked numerous times to other clubs, but he has a commitment to this club and he loves representing Swansea,"

Williams has made 318 appearances for Swansea since signing from Stockport County in 2008.