Swansea captain Ashley Williams insists he has no intention of leaving the club despite speculation linking him with a switch to Premier League rivals Everton.

The defender has been a talisman for the Swans since he joined the club from Stockport in 2008 and he featured in all but one league game last season as the Welsh club secured their highest top flight finish in 33 years when they ended the campaign in eighth.

The Welsh international has featured in over 250 league matches during his seven year spell with the Jacks and his form has reportedly attracted the interest of the Toffees, who see the 30-year-old as the ideal replacement for John Stones should the youngster leave Goodison Park.

Such speculation does not concern the central defender, who remains fully focused on the start of the new Premier League campaign this weekend.

He said: “I’m used to dealing with the speculation and bids. It’s part of the job and I just take it as a compliment and shows that you’re doing your job properly. I’m committed to Swansea and just concentrating on Swansea this pre-season.”

Williams is keen to enjoy another record-breaking campaign with the Swans following last season’s exploits and he remains proud to represent the South Wales club in what will be their fifth straight campaign in the top flight.

He continued: “I just get on with the job and lead this group of players to something we’ve never been to before, which we did last season. It’s something I’m really proud of with Wales and Swansea. If we can do something like that again, I’ll be extremely proud of the guys.”

The Swans begin the new season with a trip to reigning champions Chelsea on Saturday and they are available at 9.50 to spring a surprise at Stamford Bridge, whilst the hosts are on offer at 1.36 and the draw is available at 5.25.