The Monk who didn't quite become a venerated Saint has instead stretched his wings and taken flight as Swan
Monk began his career as a trainee with Torquay prior to turning professional with Southampton in May 1997 after representing England at under-17 level.
He made his debut against Derby County in November 1998 in place of the injured Ken Monkou, but managed just 10 more appearances in the next six seasons as he embarked on a string of loan spells at Torquay, Stockport, Oxford, Sheffield United and Barnsley.
He joined the Tykes on a free transfer in February 2004 then switched to Swansea four months later after just three appearances. A whole-hearted centre-half, he finally appears to have found the right club and has played a key role in the club’s two promotions, the skipper being rewarded with a new two-year contract at the end of 2007/08 after topping 100 appearances for the Swans.