Steve Cooper | I've never felt as proud as I do at this club

Steve Cooper has spoken of his pride at leading Swansea City as his side go in search of South Wales derby history this weekend.

Victory at Cardiff City Stadium on Sunday would make the Swans the first side to complete the league double in the fixture, which has been running for 108 years.

Cooper’s men – who currently occupy the final play-off spot – claimed the bragging rights in the reverse fixture thanks to Ben Wilmot’s header.

And with a chance to write their names into the history books looming, Cooper has outlined the feeling he gets from representing the football club and the city.

“I have never felt as proud as I do in this role,” said the head coach.

“It’s not just on matchdays when you get good results or the fans are singing and getting behind the team. It’s the general feeling in the city.

“Of course, there are times where fans will offer advice of how we can do things better, and I get that because we are obliged to do that.

“I could not think of a better place that I would want to be at this moment in time.”

With the Swans making the short trip up the M4 for the 109th contest between the old rivals, Cooper and his players know to expect a testing atmosphere and environment.

But that is just the sort of challenge the 40-year-old wants his staff and players to thrive on.

“We’re not expecting a nice reception, that’s for sure. It’s the same as when teams come to our place, we don’t want it to be nice for them either,” said Cooper.

“But it’s exciting to know you can go to an away ground and know that, if you get it right, you can dominate the ball, play well, be creative and create chances.

“That’s the stuff we find motivating because they are challenges.”

***Fans are advised that a cashless till system will be in operation at the Cardiff City Stadium for Sunday's South Wales derby.

All purchases must be made by card.