Dean Saunders: 'Swansea City not signing Joe Allen is a disaster'

Joe Allen in action at a Wales training session on March 22, 2016
© Getty Images
Swansea City failing to re-sign Joe Allen from Liverpool is a "disaster" for the Welsh club, according to their former striker Dean Saunders.

Swansea City failing to re-sign Wales international Joe Allen from Liverpool is a "disaster" for the club, according to their former striker Dean Saunders.

The 26-year-old midfielder has joined Premier League rivals Stoke City for £13m after the Swans' £8m bid was rejected in June.

Saunders added that Allen had been praised by ex-Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson for his performance at Euro 2016.

The 52-year-old Welshman told BBC Sport: "He never mentioned Aaron Ramsey or Gareth Bale. We should have got him back.

"I was speaking to Sir Alex Ferguson and he said, 'What about Joe Allen's performances in the Euros? What a player he is'.

"It is a disaster for Swansea. Mark Hughes knows him but I am disappointed as a Swansea fan. He is a great player."

Allen was named in the team of the tournament after helping Wales to the semi-finals in their first major finals appearance in 58 years.

Liverpool's Joe Allen celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Exeter City on January 20, 2016
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