The Swansea captain has been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool, but his coach is hopeful he will remain in south Wales

Swansea manager Michael Laudrup believes Ashley s will stay at the Liberty Stadium despite rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal.
Swans vice-captain s has also been linked with Liverpool after an impressive campaign which has seen him lift the Capital One Cup and help the Welsh club push into the top half of the Premier League table.

Laudrup admitted speculation is a natural thing when players are performing well, but is confident he can persuade his stars to stay put.

“We know that there will be a lot of rumours – I’ve said that before – about some of our players because they’ve done well this season,” he told reporters.

“But again, a lot of our players, especially the regulars, have renewed their contract this season, among others Ashley.

“When your players are doing well it’s normal that there’s interest from bigger clubs sometimes.

“[But] I imagine if someone is renewing and extending their contract [it is] because they want to stay next season.

“But you never know in football. I know that, I’ve been here enough.”