Laudrup hails 'professional' display
8th August
Michael Laudrup hailed his side's 'professional' performance as the Swans booked their place in the next round of the Europa League.
The visitors were rarely threatened at the Swedbank Stadion, and probably should have gone on to win the game after first-half chances for Michu and Wayne Routledge.
Wilfried Bony also saw a goal ruled out for offside as Laudrup's men reached the play-off round.
And the Dane was understandably delighted to progress to the next stage, with the new Premier League season set to get underway in just over a week's time.
"Overall, I'm very satisfied," said Laudrup. "It was a professional performance from ourselves, they had a chance in the first minute but then I think we dominated the game.
"There were also many positives. We have played two games, kept two clean sheets and not given many chances away to the opposition.
"If we had to find a negative then it is the fact that we have to do better offensively.
"But we can't always dominate games, and the clean sheets are very important because it breeds confidence."
While all eyes will be on Friday's Europa League draw in Nyon, attention now turns to next weekend's Premier League opener against Manchester United.
The Swans welcome the reigning champions to SA1 in front of a sell-out crowd, and Laudrup insists his side are now looking forward to the new campaign after a successful pre-season campaign.
"We are ready now," he said. "Most of the players in the squad have played 90 minutes in competitive games, and that is important.
"Chico came back in today, but Jordi played very well in the first leg last week.
"We also had Jose (Canas) play the full 90 minutes, and that was good for us. It is important that the new players play as much as possible to help adapt and settle in.
"But we have to improve and they will all come good over time."
The Swans will now feature in Friday's draw (12 noon GMT) as they bid to try and reach the group stages of the Europa League.
And Laudrup is hoping for a slice of luck ahead of what will prove to be a hectic period for his squad.
"I hope that we have a good, short trip," he said. "Coming to Sweden has been perfect for us, and I hope we can play the first leg away from home.
"But let's see what happens on Friday. We want to reach the group stages and play another six games which would be fantastic for the club and for the players."
