QUITTING international football was a bold step for Dennis Lawrence but he remains happy with the decision and expects the Swans to benefit from it.
Having played over 60 times for Trinidad and Tobago, quitting international football at the end of last season was a tough choice for Lawrence.
The World Cup centre-back spent a lot of time deliberating, but he has no regrets about his eventual decision.
While Lawrence expects to benefit from the choice on a personal level, he also believes it will be a good move for the Swans in the long-term.
He said, “Obviously there were a lot of reasons behind my decision to quit. Swansea will get a lot of benefits from it and so will I.
“It wasn’t an easy decision and I spent a lot of time thinking about it. I just felt, at this time, it was the right decision for me.
“I think, and hope, Swansea will reap the benefits.”
Lawrence hasn’t ruled out playing for his country again, though and, when asked if there was any chance he could return to Trinidad and Tobago, he said, “At the moment I have made my decision and I intend to stand by it.
“In this game you have no idea what can happen in the future, but at this moment all I’m focused on is the start of the season and playing for Swansea City.”
Lawrence is expected to start at Oldham today and, having overcome a hamstring injury during pre-season, he is feeling fully fit.
He said, “The injury wasn’t something I’d expected, but I’m over it now and I’m raring to go for the new season.
The 6ft 7in defender said he enjoyed pre-season, but it was clear he just wanted to play competitively again.
He said, “It’s always good to be back on the pitch playing league games. You work hard throughout pre-season to try and get the right start.”
Along with the rest of Roberto Martinez’s squad, Lawrence will have a chance to make sure the Swans open their campaign with a win.
He added, “Oldham is where it begins for us and we’ve got to make sure we go out and get a positive result.
“I’m confident we will do well this season.”