Swans Laud-ed for cup class

25th February

The Swans won rave reviews from within football circles after their convincing 5-0 win over Bradford City in the Capital One Cup.
Their performance at Wembley oozed of class as they secured the club's first major trophy in the Swans' 100-year history.
It has led to calls for some Swans players to be included in the England set-up, while the club have been backed to shine on the European stage.
Chairman Huw Jenkins has also been hailed for his role in the club's rise to prominence while an ex-Swan discusses the importance of holding onto Spanish striker Michu and manager Michael Laudrup.


We kick-off, however, with praise from FA Chairman David Bernstein.
He said: "I had the pleasure of attending the Capital One Final at Wembley Stadium yesterday.
"In the context of all we in football are trying to achieve in the area of respect and good behaviour it was an outstanding occasion.
"I would like to congratulate Swansea City FC on their support, fine performance and excellent victory and both clubs on the level of sportsmanship shown.
"In particular it was more than pleasing to witness the fantastic support of the Bradford City fans. Their backing for their team in adversity was a wonderful example of passion and loyalty combined with good humour. It was a pleasure to observe. Very well done to all concerned."

Former Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie Redknapp pushes the international hopes of Leon Britton and Nathan Dyer: "We saw them in the white of Swansea City at the home of England yesterday, but isn't it time we took a look at Leon Britton and Nathan Dyer in the white of England?
"They don't lose the ball and while Dyer was dynamic, Britton is so good on the ball."
Wales manager Chris Coleman looks at the Swans' chances in the Europa League next season: "It's a different style of play in European football but, with their philosophy and style of play, I think they will suit it," said former Swans star Coleman. "I think they can do well next year, especially if they keep Michael Laudrup."

Ex-England centre-back Mark Lawrenson highlights the role of Swans Chairman Huw Jenkins: "Congratulations to Michael Laudrup and the Swansea team rewarded at Wembley for being serial thrillers this season.
"They lived up to every inch of their billing with a five-star performance, dripping with class and oozing the quality of their manager.
"They get to play in the Europa League next season, meaning Laudrup has quite literally taken them to another level.
"It isn't just what Laudrup has done, however, but also what Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins has done.
"He has been responsible for the blueprint of the club and all the managers he appointed have had a degree of success.
"So this cup win is the culmination of quite a few years of planning. They are an extremely well-run football club.
"If he hasn't already, Huw Jenkins will start to get masses of praise from all quarters.
"He deserves it."

Former Swans striker Lee Trundle is hopeful the club will be able to hold onto manager Michael Laudrup and Spaniard Michu: "It would be a crying shame if they lost one of them. When somebody goes to Swansea and does well, they are always going to be linked with moves away, and both of them have been brilliant.
"Most of the other signings have been great as well. Laudrup's made a big impact. I'm just hoping that Swansea can hold on to both of them."