The Joe Allen interview: Turning down transfer interest, a Swansea City legend's blessing and the true pull of Russell Martin

It's a reunion that has been in the pipeline for some time.

Joe Allen is a Jack once more. Although, the reality is, he always was. Nine years, 10 months and 28 days after his big-money move from Swansea City to Liverpool, the midfielder officially sealed a return to the club where it all began.

Croeso adref (welcome home) read the title on the Swans' official announcement of the 32-year-old's signing. But the return isn't a sentimental one. It's business.

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"It was tough to leave as a player," Allen said of his exit a decade ago. "Everything was perfect and I was loving life. Both the team and I had had a good year in the Premier League, but in all honesty, when a club like Liverpool comes calling, it makes it difficult for an ambitious lad not to make that move.

"To be fair, everybody was fully understanding and supportive. Coming back, I think I’ve still got a lot of offer. I’m confident the experience I’ve gained over the years as a player with Liverpool and Stoke, and with everything that has happened with Wales, are all things that will be a big help in allowing me to get out there and performing well. I want good things to happen here."

The move had been on the horizon for some time, and with Allen's Stoke City contract expiring this summer, it's fair to say the midfielder had a mountain of options on his table. Several Championship clubs showed an interest in him while others from abroad - including Spanish side RCD Mallorca - were keen to strike a deal.

But his heart was with Swansea, and while the wait was somewhat anxious at times, the relief when the paperwork was all finally signed, sealed and delivered was palpable.

"I was