Welcome back to the Swansea.com Stadium for the first game of a home Championship double-header as we play host to Birmingham City.
While we exited the FA Cup last weekend against West Brom, I felt we could continue to see signs of the improvements we are making as a team under Vitor’s leadership.
Obviously the frustration is that we did not take our chances to avoid the lottery of a penalty shootout, but there was more evidence of the incremental steps we are taking game by game as the players and coaching staff spend more and more time together on the training pitch.
We have won our last four league games here in SA1, this run of form contributed to Vitor’s nomination for December Manager of the month award and Josh Tymon’s player of the month nomination, both of which are richly deserved. We last won five in a row in the closing stages of the 2018-19 campaign so it would be a nice milestone if we are able to match that today, particularly in what I think has arguably been the most competitive Championship season in recent memory.
This is underlined by just how close the relative spread of points is in the division. Just 15 points separate second and 18th, and it means that putting a string of results together has the potential to carry teams a long way in a short space of time.
But, to do that – as Vitor himself has said repeatedly – you have to keep your focus day by day and game game, because that is what gives us the best chance of finding the consistency of approach and performance we are looking for.
I also want to take this opportunity to wish some of our players well as they embark on loan spells with other clubs.
Young midfielders Ben Lloyd and Joel Cotterill will spend the rest of the season with Newport County and Dundee respectively, while Kaelan Casey has returned to West Ham with a view to gaining further senior experience elsewhere.
We thank Kaelan for his efforts and the manner in which he conducted himself during his time with us, and we hope Ben and Joel will continue to develop and gain valuable experience.
Joel now makes it four young players that are on loan in the SPL, joining Filip Lissah, Kerell Wilson and Cam Congreve. We have already seen the benefits of these loans for these three who have not only gained valuable experience but performed well in what is a highly competitive league. Moving forward, as part of our on-going plans to develop the academy and the pathway into the first-team, we will be looking to do more loans like these to ensure that our best prospects are getting competitive game time and experience that will serve them well when they return to fight for their spot in our first team squad.
As mentioned in our ownership update prior to Christmas, we have not entered this January window expecting it to be a busy one on the back of a big turnover within the squad last summer.
But that does not mean plenty of hard work is not going on behind the scenes as we assess our options when it comes to strengthening the squad.
There is a lot of external noise during periods such as this (much of which is not accurate), but as a club we prefer to go about our work quietly, and I assure you we will keep you updated on any business we do via our official channels.
Thanks for all of your continued and support and I hope that you all enjoy today's game,
Tom Gorringe
CEO, Swansea City
Good evening all and welcome to the Swansea.com Stadium as we take on Birmingham City in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
We have certainly enjoyed playing here at home over the last month or so. We have won our last four league games here, and then drew our cup game against West Brom over 120 minutes before losing on penalties.
It has been nearly seven years since we last won five league games at home, and we would love to be able to achieve that in what we expect to be a tough test against a well-organised Birmingham side with a clear playing identity.
One of the big positives over the last couple of weeks has been the time we have been able to have with the players on the training pitch.
That time is vital for all of us, and it is not something we have had much of since I joined the club because of how many games we have had in a short space of time.
Whenever we have this opportunity for a full week to train, I feel like we take positive steps in the right direction and we want this to be the case this evening.
We want to keep pushing, to keep working and to keep improving, and you – our supporters – have played your part in helping us do that.
We know we have the responsibility to produce performances that make you feel like our team is a part of you, and when we are able to do that we know you will be our 12th player.
This is such an important strength for us to have as a club and a team, we feel your support home and away, and with two home games back-to-back we will need to be as one again as we look to get more results and move up the table.
Enjoy the game and thank you for your brilliant support,
Vítor Matos,
First Team Head Coach
Today we welcome Birmingham City and their coach Chris Davies, who some of you will remember from his time with us as assistant coach to Brendan Rodgers, having joined us in 2010 at only 25 years of age.
He later moved to Liverpool with Brendan before leaving when Jurgen Klopp became Liverpool manager. If he had stayed on, he would have worked with Vitor Matos, who himself was a development pathway coach at Liverpool under Klopp in 2019.
The FA Cup match against West Bromwich Albion was a disappointment I’m sure for all Jacks. However, it gives us the opportunity to concentrate on the league and it now has to be onwards and upwards.
In the second half of that game, we saw Joel Ward make his debut. Joel, although in his mid-thirties, is a player of vast experience and who can play across the back four, or even as a defensive midfielder.
We welcome Joel and wish him all the best at Swansea. Other than that, I’m certainly not going to add to the transfer rumours flying around, which always happen during the run up to and during any window.
Birmingham City were promoted from League One as champions at the end of last season. At the time of writing Birmingham are in 14th position on 34 points, two points and three places better off than us and with a slightly superior goal difference. In our previous meeting back in September we lost 1-0 to a 94th minute Lyndon Dykes goal, in a game we could have won, or at least come away with a point from.
As a professional club Birmingham City were formed in Birmingham in 1875 as Small Heath Alliance. It was renamed Small Heath in 1888, and then became Birmingham City in 1943.
Our complete record of home matches between the Swans and Birmingham reads as follows, for the statisticians amongst us (* kindly provided courtesy of Gwyn Davies).
Total matches - 22
Matches won - 6
Matches drawn - 7
Matches lost - 9
Goals scored - 28
Goals conceded - 29
First home match - Lost 4-2 September 22, 1945
Most recent home match - Drew 1-1 August 5, 2023
So, with Birmingham slightly edging it on past encounters, it’s time to begin addressing that today as well as putting us proud Jacks above them in the Championship table.
Some of the players who played for both Swansea and Birmingham include, but are not limited to: Scott Sinclair, Steve Jenkins, David Cotterill, Jefferson Montero, Jason Bowen, John Cornforth. Kyle Bartley and Ethan Laird.
On the Supporters’ Trust front we are now organising our AGM for Thursday February 5, and all our Trust members received email notification of that last week.
In the meantime, enjoy the experience of today’s game, so let’s get behind the team for a comfortable win – Come on You Jacks.
Dave
Swansea City Under-18s will face Leeds United away from home in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup.
The fixture will take place at the LNER Community Stadium on Monday, January 19 2026, with a 7pm kick-off.
The young Swans progressed to this round of the prestigious knockout competition thanks to a 97th-minute winner from Brogan Popham against Hull City at the MKM Stadium.
Adult tickets are priced at £6, with concessions and under-16s priced at £3. Parking can also be purchased with your ticket.
As part of a ongoing feature in our digital matchday programme for the 2025-26 campaign, we are calling on all Swans fans to share their memories and experiences of supporting the club this season by submitting your stories and pictures. We will publish a selection over the course of the season, and you can share your stories with us through the link below.
Un peth sydd wedi dod lan ar fy nhudalen TikTok yn ddiweddar yw arferion neu draddodiadau pobl ar ddiwrnod gêm pêl-droed. Mae’n rhywbeth sydd yn gyffredin i bob un ohonom, pe bai ni’n sylwi arno neu beidio, ond mae’n wir. Dros y 15 mlynedd dwi wedi gwylio’r Elyrch yn rheolaidd mae rhyw fath o drefn i’r diwrnod pob tro. Dros y dyddiau diwethaf dwi wedi gweld arferion gwallgof fel gwisgo pâr o bants penodol i’r cyffredin fel mynd i dafarn penodol am beint. Felly man y man i fi rannu sut mae fy niwrnod i yn edrych (er bod neb wedi gofyn.)
Mae’n dechrau yn y bore, wrth gwrs. Does dim byd anarferol am fy niwrnod cyn canol dydd a dweud y gwir. Codi, cawod, DIM brecwast ac yna gwylio rhywbeth ar y teledu am awr neu ddwy cyn dechrau paratoi i adael. Un peth sy’n hanfodol i mi yw bod rhaid gwisgo crys Abertawe os fi’n mynd i wylio nhw’n fyw. Hyd yn oed os mae’n oer a byddai’n gwisgo siwmper a chot dros fy nghrys, byddai’n teimlo’n anarferol gwisgo unrhyw beth arall. Mae hyn yn wir hefyd ar gyfer gemau Cymru, gartref ac oddi cartref - rhaid gwisgo’r crys yn y stadiwm.
Pob un dydd Sadwrn am tua 1 mae’r cinio gwmws yr un peth. Bap bacwn gydag wy - dim byd sbesial ond rhywbeth sy’n neud y job ac yn ddigon hawdd i’w wneud. Yna ar ôl bwyta’r pryd blasus mae’n fater o aros hanner awr tan fod mam a dad yn barod ac yna mae’r tri ohonom yn gadael y tŷ tua 1:30 er mwyn parcio’r car am tua 2. Un o fy hoff adegau wedyn cyn y gêm yw cerdded i’r stadiwm wrth i’r tîm gael ei gyhoeddi a siarad gyda fy rhieni am sut ni’n meddwl bydden ni’n chwarae, pa safle mae pawb ac ymateb yn hapus neu’n flin gyda’r 11 sydd ar y cae.
Wrth gyrraedd mae’n fater o edrych yn y club shop pob tro (er nad ydym ni byth yn prynu unrhyw beth) cyn cerdded mewn i’r stadiwm trwy giât rhif 13. Nawr mae 13 yn anlwcus i lawer, ond roedd fy nhad a fi wedi mynd mewn trwy’r giât hynny pan enillom yn erbyn Nottingham Forest yn rownd gyn-derfynol gemau ail-gyfle’r bencampwriaeth yn 2011, ac mae wedi aros fel hynny ers ‘ny.
S’dim lot o aros unwaith ni yn y stadiwm, prynu diod sydyn ac yn cerdded lan i’n seddi tua hanner awr cyn y gic gyntaf. Ers erioed pan dwi’n cerdded lan y grisiau dwi’n rhedeg lan y 4 stepen olaf ac yna neidio ar yr un olaf cyn gweld golygfa’r cae. A bod yn onest dwi ddim yn siŵr pam bod fi’n gwneud hyn, mae jyst yn rhywbeth sydd wedi dod yn naturiol i fi. Unwaith mae’r gic gyntaf does dim llawer o wahaniaeth i brofiad unrhyw gefnogwr arall. Gweiddi, dathlu, gwylltio fel pob un o’r 20,000 arall sydd wedi talu i (gobeithio) gwylio eu tîm yn ennill. Ond beth bynnag sy’n digwydd ar y cae, bydd fy nghalon a chefnogaeth yn driw i’r Elyrch am byth.
The start of the 2025-26 season marked 20 years since Swansea City moved into our Swansea.com Stadium home.
To mark the anniversary, club historian Gwyn Rees is profiling members of the first Swans squad to grace the stadium during the 2005-06 campaign. This time, he looks at the career of cult hero Andy Robinson.
All-action midfielder Andy Robinson was born in 1979 in Birkenhead on the Wirral, and began his youth team football with Cammell Laird.
His promising play alerted Football League clubs, with Tranmere Rovers signing the player in 2002, though he was unable to make a first team appearance and was released by the club in 2003.
But his potential had been spotted by Swansea manager Kenny Jackett. Robinson initially signed on a three-month trial, but it did not take long for that to be made into an offer of a full-time contract and the follow year he scored a superb free-kick as the Swans stunned Preston in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
He went on to be a key figure during the club’s final season at the Vetch Field, helping the Swans to promotion from League Two and scoring the final goal at the famous old ground in the 2-1 victory over Wrexham in the 2005 FAW Premier Cup final.
Although short in stature, Robinson played the game with a big heart and it endeared him to the Jack Army even if occasionally saw him fall foul of referees.
The Swans continued their upward trajectory after moving to the Swansea.com Stadium, winning the EFL Trophy against Carlisle in Cardiff, and reaching the League One play-off final only to lose to Barnsley on penalties.
But Robinson would remain an important player during the League One title success in 2007-08.
He played mainly as a winger, or as a wide midfield player, and was a consistent goalscorer for the side, while being deadly from any dead-ball situation.
His influence was recognised when he was named in the PFA League One team of the season in 2006 and 2008, and it came as a considerable shock to supporters when he elected not to sign a new contract and make the move to Leeds United.
Such was his influence on the team, that he was voted into the P.F.A. Team of the Season in 2005-06 and 2007-08, and it came as a shock to most supporters when after five exciting seasons at the club he decided not to resign when his contract was up for renewal, and instead signed on at Leeds United.
At the Yorkshire giants he was briefly reunited with partner in crime Lee Trundle, but Robinson’s time at Elland Road was blighted by injuries, limiting his involvement, particularly during his second season there.
By March 2010 he had joined Tranmere Rovers on loan, and in his short time there he was able to help the club avoid relegation to League Two.
After returning to his parent club he had his contract terminated by mutual consent, and signed on full time at Tranmere in January 2011. His initial time saw him rediscover some of his best form, scoring seven goals in the opening month of the season and securing the divisional Player of the Month award, but by the following season he was struggling for game time, and his contract was once again cancelled by mutual agreement.
One more move, this time to Shrewsbury Town, saw him make just three appearances before a serious knee injury saw an end to his full-time professional career in March 2015.
He did still keep his hand in by playing in the Welsh League with Ammanford Town, once more teaming up with Trundle.
A regular at the Swansea.com Stadium as a pundit and commentator with Swans TV and BBC Wales, he suffered a heart attack in 2025, and the outpouring of well wishes from around the football community underlined how popular and much-loved a figure he remains.
Thankfully he has made a good recovery and familiar voice is once again being heard over the airwaves at Swans games.
Initially formed in 1875 as Small Heath Alliance, the club became Small Heath and then Birmingham, before finally settling on its current name in 1943.
Small Heath are listed as one of the founding members of the Football League Second Division, and were the first champions of that league.
The Blues have played home matches at their St. Andrew’s ground for 118 years.
The highest league finish in their 147-year history came in the 1955-56 season where they finished sixth in the First Division. They also reached the FA Cup final that year – their joint best performance in that competition, having also finished as runners-up 1931.
Birmingham are two-time winners of the EFL Cup (1963 and 2011) and were runners-up in 2001.
They are currently in their first season back at Championship level, securing the League One title last season following their relegation from the second tier in 2024.
ST ANDREW'S @ KNIGHTHEAD PARK
Built: 1906
Location: Cattell Road, Bordesley, B9 4RL
Capacity: 29,409
Chris Davies took charge of the Blues in the summer of 2024 and enjoyed an excellent first season in charge as they romped to the League One title.
The step up to Championship level has proved tougher, but Birmingham have unsurprisingly proved a competitive proposition despite that recent winless run.
A promising young midfielder as a player, Davies was on the books at Reading when an arthritic foot condition forced him stop playing.
He immediately moved into coaching and has spells in New Zealand and the USA.
When Brendan Rodgers became Swansea manager, he added Davies - captain of the Reading youth team the Northern Irishman had coached - to his staff and he would be part of the club's promotion to the top-flight and first season in the top-flight.
Davies followed Rodgers to Liverpool and - after a short spell as assistant manager at Reading - then joined him at Celtic and Leicester, where they enjoyed tremendous success with the Bhoys completely dominating Scottish football and Leicester winning the FA Cup and Community Shield during their time together.
Davies went on to serve as Ange Postecoglou's assistant at Tottenham, before striking out on his own with Birmingham.
Defender Christoph Klarer has taken the captaincy in the summer of 2025 after a highly impressive first season at St Andrew's.
The Austrian spent time on the books of Rapid Vienna as a youngster before moving to Southampton.
He did not make a senior appearance for Saints but became a regular at Fortuna Dusseldorf and Darmstadt 98 before returning to English football with Birmingham.
Klarer was a key figure in their League One title success and was named in the PFA League One Team of the Year.
Defender Phil Neumann is in his first season with Birmingham, having joined from Hannover over the summer.
The pacy 28-year-old was on the books of Schalke as a teenager and went on to join Ingolstadt and Holstein Kiel, being part of the latter's squad when they reached the semi-finals of the German Cup - knocking Bayern Munich out along the way - and coming agonisingly close to promotion to the Bundesliga.
He went on to join Hannover in 2022, before signing a pre-agreement last January to join Birmingham in the summer.
Winger Demarai Gray is back at the club where he first made his breakthrough, and he has already contributed five goals and four assists.
Gray joined Birmingham's academy as an 11-year-old and came through the ranks to become a regular at senior level before moving to Leicester City in January 2016 with the Foxes on their way to the Premier League title.
He spent five years in the East Midlands before making the move to Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen.
Gray's time in Germany was shortlived and he returned to England with Everton, spending two seasons at Goodison Park and scoring some important goals during a difficult time for the Merseyside club before having a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq.
Forward Jay Stansfield is Birmingham's topscorer with eight goals so far this term.
The 23-year-old is the son of former Exeter striker Adam, who sadly passed away in 2010 after a battle with cancer.
Stansfield came through the Grecians' academy before moving to Fulham in 2019.
The England Under-21 international had a productive spell on loan at his boyhood club during the 2022-23 season, netting nine goals for Exeter, and he impressed in making the step up to Championship level with an initial loan at Birmingham the following campaign.
He was Birmingham's player of the season but could not prevent them being relegated from the second tier.
The Blues made his move from Fulham a permanent one as they paid a reported £15million fee, and he went on to score 19 league goals as they racked up over 100 points on their way to the League One title.
Is Swansea a football city or a rugby city?
The above question has been debated widely over the past few months.
The discussion has been sparked by the Welsh Rugby Union’s plan to cut one of the four professional regions which currently play in the United Rugby Championship.
The region which appears to be in the crosshairs of the WRU’s assassination squad are the Ospreys.
The Swansea-based region shared the Swansea.com Stadium with us until last season, before deciding to relocate to the St Helen’s sports ground on the other side of the city.
I’m aware there is a large contingent of the Jack Army who couldn’t care less for the Ospreys’ plight.
The relationship between the ‘egg-chasers’ and ‘wendy-ballers’ has not always been an entirely harmonious one generally, let alone in this part of south Wales.
I’m sure the vast majority of the Jack Army will argue Swansea is very much a football city, while supporters of the oval ball game may argue the opposite.
In recent weeks, the view that Swansea is a football city has gained support from those outside the area who would like to see the Ospreys fold and their teams survive.
They claim Newport, Cardiff and Llanelli, the homes of the other three regions, are better placed to support professional rugby organisations.
My view is that Swansea has always very much been a sporting city – capable of successfully sustaining both rugby and football, as well as numerous other sports.
The city has a proud history of staging top-flight sporting occasions – sometimes on the same day.
I remember one November Saturday back in 1981 when the Swans hosted today’s visitors Birmingham City in the old First Division, while Swansea RFC welcomed the touring Australian national rugby union side on the same day.
To accommodate people like me, who wanted to watch both matches, the kick-off times were staggered.
The rugby match started at 2.30pm, while the clash with the Blues was scheduled at 6pm.
These days we are used to football matches being played at various times due to television coverage – today’s fixture being the perfect example.
But back then, 6pm on a Saturday evening was highly unusual – especially for a match being played in the top-flight. But the kick-off time had been put back to avoid a clash with the rugby.
A large crowd flocked to St Helen’s in the afternoon to watch the likes of Swansea-born Wales international stars like Richard Moriarty and Geoff Wheel take on the Wallabies, who had beaten Ireland at Lansdowne Road the previous weekend.
The All Whites gave a good account of themselves against the Australians, but eventually went down to a 3-12 defeat at the hands of the international side.
When the final whistle sounded at St Helen’s, I and many others filed out of the ground and headed back towards the city centre for the second leg of a rare sporting double.
There was time to stop for a bag of chips or even a couple of pints before joining the queues outside the Vetch for the visit of The Blues, which attracted a crowd of just over 15,000.
Like the match just up the road a couple of hours earlier, there was plenty of local talent on show in the Swans line-up on that chilly Saturday evening.
They included Nigel Stevenson, Leighton James and Robbie James, who scored the winner after 66 minutes to defeat a Birmingham team which included the likes of Archie Gemmil, Frank Worthington and Wales international Pat Van Den Hauwe.
In fact, there is a similar double-header tonight. Just after the final whistle here, the Ospreys will be kicking off a European Challenge Cup match in Bridgend, where they are playing home matches while St Helen’s is redeveloped. However, the kick of times aren’t as sympathetic this evening for those who want to watch both matches.
With the Ospreys and the Swans sharing the same stadium in recent years, the logistics of both playing at home on the same day were prohibitive.
However, there were still some memorable weekends for those of us who enjoy both codes.
One in springs to mind in particular, was when the then Liberty Stadium hosted the reigning European rugby and football champions on consecutive days.
On Saturday, November 3, 2012 the Swans hosted Champions League holders Chelsea in a Premier League match which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Then, around 23 hours after the Swans match finished, the Ospreys hosted rugby union's Heineken Cup champions Leinster on the Sunday afternoon in a league match which the home side won 19-10.
With the Chelsea fixture attracting just over 20,000 and the Leinster match pulling in 9,246, it would certainly support the theory that Swansea has become more of a football city in recent times.
But it also backs my claim that Swansea is also a great all-round sporting city – boasting teams that could compete with two reigning European champion teams and emerge unbeaten.
Whether you are a rugby fan or not, I personally feel the city would be all the poorer if the Ospreys were to disappear from the sporting landscape.
Swansea and its surrounding valleys and communities have long had a reputation for producing natural ball players – whether they have gone on to excel with the round ball, the oval ball, or both.
For example, former Swan Ben Davies, one of Wales’ most respected international footballers, excelled in rugby and several other sports.
Ben, a former schoolboy outside-half at Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera, once said: “My school was a very big rugby school, so I played a lot of rugby in my early days there.
“I probably played more rugby than football back in those days. In fact, not probably, I definitely played more rugby!
“I felt like I played a bit of everything, to be honest. I played a good deal of cricket in those times, which I loved. I also played a bit of squash and tennis, too.
“The clear thing was that it helped me because you pick up a lot of different skills from playing different sports.
“It definitely helped me in my football, with things like co-ordination, balance, agility and overall fitness, having played lots of different sports.”
Going further back, arguably Wales’ greatest-ever rugby player had a grounding in football and came within a whisker of signing as a schoolboy for the Swans.
In the early 1960s, Swans manager Trevor Morris went as far as visiting the Amman Valley home of the great Gareth Edwards to convince the all-round sportsman’s parents that their son’s future lay in football.
Morris believed he had secured Edwards’ signature, but the youngster eventually opted to go to Millfield School where he pursued his rugby career and became one of the game’s greatest-ever players.
Like Ben Davies, Edwards was another who believed taking part in a variety of sports helped him become the player he was having excelled in athletics and gymnastics as well as football.
So here’s to football, rugby and all the other sports enjoyed in the locality continuing to thrive and make Swansea a true sporting city long into the future.
C’mon you Swans!
Booking is now open for Swansea City AFC Foundation’s February Soccer Camps.
The February school half-term is approaching quickly, starting on Monday February 16 with Soccer Camps running every day in various locations.
Find the Foundation in Ammanford, Cefn Hengoed, Bishopston, Penyrheol, Llanelli, Pembroke or Llandarcy to enjoy a day filled with football fun.
Soccer Camps run between 10am and 2:30pm and young Jacks will learn new skills in the morning by taking part in technical drills and activities, before putting their skills to the test in the afternoon during mini games and tournaments.
Spaces are limited so be sure to book soon to avoid missing out.
First football shirt you owned?
Liverpool top
Best player you've played with?
Clarkson – Aberdeen
What's your go-to cheat meal?
Pizza
Who's the joker in the dressing room?
Kyrell
If you weren't a footballer, what would you be?
PE Teacher
Who's your top artist on Spotify right now?
Drake
Can you name Welsh word?
Croeso
Toughest opponent you've faced?
Ben Doak
Favourite holiday destination?
Spain
Who's your hometown club?
Hearts
Favourite football memory?
Signing First Pro Contract
Joel Ward knows the question is coming and when it inevitably arrives his face breaks into a broad grin.
The 36-year-old is a humble and unassuming presence and he has settled into life at Swansea City with a minimum of fuss, as evidenced by an assured debut against West Bromwich Albion last weekend.
The defender has joined the Swans on a deal through to the end of the 2025-26 season, having last been with Crystal Palace.
Indeed, Ward’s name will also be synonymous with Palace.
In total the full-back spent 13 seasons at Selhurst Park, helping them secure promotion from the Championship and then establish themselves in the Premier League.
When Ward’s time in south London came to an end last summer, it did so in almost fairytale fashion.
He was in the matchday squad for their famous FA Cup final victory over Manchester City last May, as Palace secured a first major honour and qualification for European competition.
Ward then made an emotional 363rd and final appearance for the Eagles in their final home Premier League fixture against Wolves.
Many assumed that might be the storybook ending to Ward’s career. I mean, what a way to bow out!
But those assumptions ignored Ward’s appetite for football.
“I think I made it really clear at the end of last season that I did not feel I was finished with football,” he said.
“I wanted to continue because you have got a short window to maximise your career, and that is certainly what I want to do. I want to make the most of being able to play while I still can.
“I can understand that when people looked at the way things ended at Palace, they thought it was a fairytale ending to my career and that should be the end of the story.
“What we achieved will always live on in my memory and in the wider world of football. It was a special time and it gave so much joy to so many people.
“But, for me, I was always clear with myself and other people that I was going to look for a new challenge.
“I have always been someone who has wanted to try and embrace and make the most of new things.
“So, when this came up, there was no question in my mind that I wanted to get back into it.
“I have an opportunity to create new memories.”
Over the summer and the opening months of the season Ward continued to train diligently while he waiting for the right opportunity to come up, and the shape he had kept himself in was evident in his ability to come through an hour as the FA Cup tie against the Baggies went to extra-time.
Ward had interest from other clubs, but there was something about the offer from Swansea that really resonated with him.
“From the moment I first walked through the door it just felt like a very welcoming place,” he said.
“Everyone has been really helpful, and people I had spoken to – who had been here past and present – only had good things to say about the place, which is rare in football.
“It just had a really good feel, I was itching to get back into the game and the plan and journey here is very intriguing and something I wanted to be a part of.
“I feel good in terms of fitness. Obviously you cannot replace playing games, but I have been fortunate that clubs I have been involved with have welcomed me to train with them and I have been able to tick over and be involved.
“So I have not really stopped at all in terms of training, I have continued the whole time and I am ready to go.
“The structure of the team and where the gaffer wants to take it is very clear. I am looking forward to learning a different way, because every person has a slightly different way.
“It’s a chance for me to continue to learn. I am eager to hit the ground running and starting a new chapter. There had been conversations with other clubs, but this just felt like the right fit for me.”
Ward also took the chance to speak to a few former Swans before signing on in SA1.
Marc Guehi, Wayne Routledge and Jordan Ayew were among that number, and Ward revealed that all only had positive things to say about the club.
“Yeah, I spoke to Marc and Wayne, as well as other players I have played with and against here,” he said.
“Leon Britton was another one I spoke to, Joe Allen too.
“It’s exciting and everyone I spoke to just spoke so highly of the club; Jordan Ayew was another one I spoke with.
“Everyone just told me it is a great club, it is a great place to be and I have been able to see that right from day one.”
And what of the months ahead?
Ward’s deal is until the end of the season and he would love to earn the chance to extend that deal.
But, for now, the immediate focus is on contributing to ensuring the Swans have a strong second half of the season.
“I want to show I can perform at this level and that I can help the team,” he said.
“It’s an exciting time for the club, the gaffer has been putting his stamp on the way the team play and the structure. He has got an infectious energy and enthusiasm and it makes you want to go out there and play for him.
“He has taken a lot from the people and the environments he has been around prior to coming here, a wealth of experience, and it puts him in a great place.
“You have got a great foundation, a great group of lads and staff who are ready to give everything so the team can go out on the pitch and give their all.
“That stems from the top, with the Championship it is all about momentum and cohesion.
“Once you have that, you can go a long way and put a string of games together.
“I want to keep playing, like I say I feel good. I have been lucky in my career not to have any serious or long-term injuries.
“I understand that being an older player you can sometimes lend your experience in a different way, but I am ready to be out there on the pitch, to make the impact I know I can, and to support where I am needed to.
“The most important thing now is being involved in the squad and helping us to achieve and try and bring the best out of everyone, what will happen after that will be what it will be.”
A late goal from Josh Pescatore earned 10-man Swansea City Under-21s their first point of 2026, as they secured a 1-1 draw with Bristol City at the Robins High Performance Centre.
The hosts looked to have snatched victory when Luke Skinner fired home from close range with three minutes remaining, converting after a free-kick delivery into the area.
But the Swans - who had been the stronger side with a team made up of largely of players from the under-18s' squad - showed real resilience to find a dramatic equaliser in added time when Pescatore calmly slotted past Freddie Godden for his third goal in his last two matches.
Swansea had controlled much of the opening 45 minutes, with Kai Rhodes and Callum Jones both forcing Godden into a series of important saves, while limiting the hosts to minimal chances.
They then suffered a setback seven minutes into the second half when Ben Phillips was shown a straight red card for bringing down Ephraim Yeboah as the last man.
Despite being reduced to 10, Swansea showed tremendous character after the dismissal, continuing to create chances and digging deep after falling behind to earn a deserved late equaliser.
They had started brightly and carved out the opening chance when a through ball from Harlan Perry found Rhodes, who attempted to chip Godden, but the keeper was quick off his line to make a strong save and deny the winger.
Godden was called into action again just minutes later after a ball down the left saw Jones cut inside onto his right foot and unleash a curling effort. The goalkeeper could only parry the shot into the path of Rhodes, whose powerful close-range follow-up was then turned around the post by Godden.
Rhodes continued to cause problems for the Robins, whose defence struggled with his trickery and movement, as he found space just outside the area but could not keep his final effort down as he fired well over the bar.
The Robins registered their first effort of the half with 11 minutes remaining when a ricochet fell to midfielder Zack Ali. However, his attempt to find the top corner sailed high and wide of the left-hand post.
It was goalless at the break but it proved to be a difficult start to the second half for the Swans. A through ball sent Yeboah in behind and into a race with central defender Phillips. The defender slipped and, as the last man, brought down the striker just outside the area, resulting in his dismissal for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
From the resulting free-kick, Dan Ezendu aimed low towards the bottom corner, but Tom Wright in the Swansea goal reacted sharply to get down and keep the set-piece out.
A second-phase delivery then saw the ball headed into the path of substitute Harry Hogg, who struck first time from close range, but Wright again did well as he stood tall and made the save.
At the other end, the Swans had a good chance to take an unlikely lead after coming under pressure following the sending off. With 20 minutes to play, Jones fizzed a dangerous ball into the area, but no Swans shirt was able to apply the crucial touch to divert the effort on target.
The hosts’ best chance arrived with 15 minutes remaining as Marley Thelwell rose highest to meet a cross, but his powerful header was superbly saved as Wright produced an excellent reaction stop to deny the defender.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, it was the Swans who looked most likely to score in the closing stages, with Jones continuing to be direct, taking on Thelwell before firing straight at Godden.
But it was the hosts who made the breakthrough with three minutes remaining when a set piece from the right, delivered by Ali, was glanced home by Skinner.
However, the Swans found a well-deserved equaliser in added time as Alfie Jones played through substitute Pescatore, who calmly slotted past Godden to ensure Swansea salvaged a point in their opening match of 2026.
Bristol City Under-21s: Freddie Godden, Joseph James (Max Davies 65), Calum Hewlett, Jack Hooper (Excellent Ikpeama 81), Daniel Ezendu, Zack Ali, Marley Thelwell, Luke Skinner, Leo Pecover (Harry Hogg 60), Tom Chaplin (Archie Taylor 65), Ephraim Yeboah.
Unused Substitutes: Isaac Finch.
Swansea City Under-21s: Tom Wright, Billy Clarke, Caio Ifans (Kaven Bloniarczyk 45), Harlan Perry, Carter Heywood, Ben Phillips, Kai Rhodes (Josh Pescatore 58), Bobo Evans (Tom Woodward 58), Josiah Kallicharan (Morgan Bates 58), Alfie Jones, Callum Jones.
Unused Substitutes: Evan Anderson.
Swansea City Women kicked off 2026 with a convincing 3-0 victory over The New Saints at the M&P Group 3G.
First-half goals from Aimee Deacon and Chloe Chivers, followed by a second-half finish from Ellie Lake, secured a second consecutive league win and all but confirmed a top-four place for the Swans ahead of the phase two split.
The opening 25 minutes were evenly contested, with the visitors applying early pressure, but the Swans weathered the storm before striking twice in quick succession just before the break.
Lake’s early second-half goal effectively ended the contest, and Swansea went on to create a number of further chances as they controlled proceedings throughout the remainder of the match.
Swansea started positively, with the opening effort falling to John, who attempted to curl a shot from the left side of the box which rose over the bar.
While the Swans had to remain alert with TNS looking to test the defence between the lines, they dealt well with the danger before Chivers carved out the first effort on target, her low strike from just outside the area was turned around the post by Mackenzie Haydn-Jones.
As the half progressed, it was the home side who began to create the clearer chances. A free kick from the halfway line, delivered by Jess Williams, was met by Maddy Murray, but she was unable to generate enough power on her effort to trouble Haydn-Jones, who gathered comfortably.
The Swans then found a deserved opener from the spot with 10 minutes remaining in the half, as Deacon was brought down in the area by Maria Francis-Jones. The forward stepped up to take the penalty and sent Haydn-Jones the wrong way to net her 12th goal of the season.
Continuing a familiar pattern this campaign, the Swans showed no signs of easing off and doubled their advantage just minutes later. Sammy Wynne played Chivers through on goal and, after her initial effort was saved by Haydn-Jones, the midfielder reacted quickest to turn home the rebound.
As the second half began, it took just eight minutes for the Swans to add a third. Lake delivered a ball into the area towards Deacon, who was unable to get a touch but did enough to wrong-foot Haydn-Jones as the ball found its way into the net.
The momentum continued to lie with the Swans, with the hosts beating the high press to work the ball into another dangerous area, although the resulting effort was parried away by Haydn-Jones.
The visitors did create an opening with 25 minutes remaining when a good run down the right-hand side from Caitlin Chapman picked out Chantelle Teare, but the forward could not generate enough power to trouble Amelia Forkings in the Swansea goal.
Minutes later, Chivers went close to adding her second of the night as the ball fell kindly to her inside the area, but her powerful strike was well saved by Haydn-Jones, who got down smartly to parry the effort away.
As the final 15 minutes approached, it continued to be one-way traffic for the hosts, who remained a threat from set-pieces. Another excellent delivery from skipper Williams was met by Deacon, but the forward could not keep her header down, sending it over the bar.
But it didn’t matter in the final analysis as the Swans claimed all three points.
Swansea City Women: Amelia Forkings, Lucy Finch, Maddy Murray, Steph Turner (Eilish Mitchell 81’), Maisie Miller (Emily Thomas 57’), Sammy Wynne (Emily Richards 81’), Aimee Deacon, Chloe Chivers (Caitlin Williams 81’), Stacey John, Ellie Lake, Jessica Williams.
Substitutes not used: Lauren Davies, Caitlin Seaborne.
The New Saints Women: Mackenzie Haydn-Jones, Maria Francis-Jones, Mia Davies, Tiggy Webb, Kayleigh Baker (Yasmin Evans 78’), Grace Dunkerley, Kelsey Richardson (Olivia Buckland 79’), Chantelle Teare, Lexi Jones (Zara Gibbs 59’), Lia Lewis, Caitlin Chapman.
Substitutes not used: Matilda Edge, Grace Thomas, Safia Paraiso.
Such awful news last week to find out that Terry Yorath had died. Like so many others, I extend my condolences to his family at this awful time. I felt so sorry for Terry’s daughter Gabby Logan, who was presenting Match of the Day when she got a call about her dad and had to leave mid programme. The call that no-one ever wants to take and one I am sure she would have preferred to be private.
Terry was a humble man who didn’t crave the limelight, in fact he seemed to avoid it, particularly after his coaching career ended. But it was clear from the obituaries and the thousands and thousands of social media comments, that he made a huge impact on many people.
As Swans fans we remember Terry fondly. He is someone who is woven into the fabric of our club for what he did here and he had a similar impact on his beloved Wales.
His famous daughter referred to him in a social media post as: “Our Dad a warrior on the football pitch, captaining club and country, a kind-hearted and generous man off it, would have hated all the attention. (Well, most of it).”
That description summed Terry up for so many people and what followed it was a succession of messages from people who had encountered Terry in one capacity or another, and who wanted to share what they remembered of him.
I was particularly moved by the number of Swans-related comments on Gabby’s Instagram post, including from former players like Ian Love and Martyn James, who was given his first contract by Terry back in the 80s.
Martyn wrote: “(Your) Dad gave me my professional contract at Swansea when he was manager here. I will be forever grateful to him for that, some great memories of his time down here. RIP Gaffer.”
Perhaps the most moving was from author Rhys Thomas, who recalled meeting Terry at the training ground, which was situated not far from the Gower campsite he and his family were staying at.
As a young seven-year-old Rhys asked Terry, who was managing the side at the time, if he played for the Swans. His reply was “I would if I could, kid.” He then asked the young lad if he was looking for autographs. Rhys’ reply to Gabby’s post goes on:
“I said I was and so he did one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for me. He took me into the changing rooms where he got all the players to sign the sheet of paper I had with me. I still remember it so well, all the players sitting on the benches, the paper being passed around, each player smiling at me when they signed.
“The memory of that act of kindness has stayed with me my whole life and I can tell you that as a little kid I remember the feeling of awe for this man who had done this for me, and how he commanded that room.“From that day on I always had a special place in my heart for the Jacks, but I had an even bigger one for your dad.”
What a lovely memory to share. RIP Terry.
JULIE KISSICK
IN MEMORY | ER COF AM
Lifelong Swans fan, North Bank and East Stand season ticket holder Brian Emanuel passed away on 22nd December, aged 88.
Brian attended the Autoglass Trophy and Championship Play Off Finals at Wembley and was at Anfield in February 1964 for the famous FA Cup quarter final victory over Liverpool which the Swans won 2 - 1.
His uncles Len and Tom Emanuel also played for the Swans, along with his cousin Gary Emanuel, who also played for today's opponents Birmingham City.
Brian was a lovely gentleman who will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.
IN MEMORY OF JEFF
R.I.P. Jeff you will be sadly missed
Once a Jack always a Jack.
We are all Jacks is Swansea City’s commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion both within the club and throughout the local community.
Working with international and local charities, as well as supporter groups, Swansea City strives to ensure that a visit to the Swansea.com Stadium is a welcoming experience for everyone regardless of sex, sexuality, gender identity, religion, race, disability, or age.
The club takes a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment, victimisation, bullying and abuse.
REPORT IT – IN THE STADIUM
Supporters are encouraged to report instances of abusive and discriminatory language within the stadium by using the anonymous text and Whatsapp number (07886 276015) providing details of the incident and your location in the stadium.
Messages will be charged at the standard rate for your network provider.
The details from the message will be received at the match control room, where any necessary investigation and/or action will be taken.
The club will also record the mobile number of the individual reporting an incident to aid with any inquiries.
Supporters can also use support@swanseacity.com to report instances of discrimination.
An audio commentary service is available for blind and partially sighted fans – provided by Radio City, the Swansea University Health Board Hospital Radio Service.
Radio City has a long association with the football club dating back to the days when the club was known as Swansea Town.
Since moving to the Swansea.com Stadium, the broadcaster has provided a live descriptive commentary service for free at all Swansea home matches, meaning that blind and partially-sighted supporters in both the home and away ends can follow the action.
In order to book a headset for the match, supporters can contact the accessibility team in advance by emailing accessibility@swanseacity.com, or contacting the ticket office from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm by calling 01792 616629 and selecting option one.
Supporters can also book headsets in person in advance at the ticket office, or on the day by speaking to a Disability Liaison Steward on the day.
To learn more about Radio City, visit www.radiocity1386am.co.uk.
The inclusion room at the Swansea.com Stadium is open every matchday for supporters who may require a quiet space during games.
Supporters will be able to attend live matches at the Swansea.com Stadium with the comfort of knowing there is a designated area should they need it. The room is available to any supporter that may require a quiet space.
The space will be monitored by a designated disability liaison steward and provides a safe space with a disabled toilet, a projector to watch the live game, and dignity packs for those who need it.
While some supporters who require a time away from the crowds may prefer to use this room as a quiet space, it will also be possible to watch the match live on a screen projected onto the wall meaning supporters who require the space for any reason don’t have to miss a moment of the match action.
The room is located in the West Stand and, while supporters who feel they may benefit from the use of the space will be recommended to sit in that stand, it will be accessible for anyone in any part of the stadium.
Any supporter who feels overwhelmed by the matchday environment for any reason can gain access to the room by making themselves known to a steward or disability liaison steward.
PLAYER SPONSORS
Shwmae Junior Jacks,
Welcome back to the Swansea.com Stadium!
We’re so glad to have you back with us tonight, are you ready for some championship action? We hope your wrapped up warm as the Swans face Birmingham City! Junior Jacks, do you think we can beat them? - We do!
Today’s Take Five quiz is about the visitors, Birmingham City, and a bit of fun too! Click the button below to test your knowledge!
Our score prediction is 2-1 to the Swans and we think Vipotnik and Jay Fulton will score!
What do you think the score will be?
Uppa Swans,
Cyril and Cybil
Head Coach Vitor Matos
1 Andy Fisher
2 Josh Key
4 Jay Fulton
5 Ben Cabango (c)
6 Marko Stamenić
7 Melker Widell
8 Malick Yalcouye
9 Žan Vipotnik
10 Jisung Eom
14 Josh Tymon
15 Cameron Burgess
16 Ishé Samuels-Smith
17 Gonçalo Franco
20 Liam Cullen
21 Manuel Benson
22 Lawrence Vigouroux
23 Ricardo Santos
24 Bobby Wales
27 Zeidane Inoussa
29 Paul Farman
30 Ethan Galbraith
33 Adam Idah
35 Ronald
40 NUMBER RETIRED IN MEMORY OF BESIAN IDRIZAJ
41 Sam Parker
46 Arthur Parker
54 Iestyn Jones
Head Coach Chris Davies
2 Ethan Laird
3 Lee Buchanan
4 Christoph Klarer ©
5 Phil Neumann
6 Jack Robinson
7 Tommy Doyle
8 Paik Seung-ho
9 Kyogo Furuhashi
10 Demarai Gray
11 Scott Wright
12 Marc Leonard
16 Patrick Roberts
18 Willum Willumson
20 Alex Cochrane
21 Ryan Allsop
23 Alfonso Sampsted
24 Tomoki Iwata
25 James Beadle
26 Bright Osayi-Samuel
27 Kanya Fujimoto
28 Jay Stansfield
30 Lewis Koumas
31 Kai Wagner
33 Marvin Ducksch
48 Bradley Mayo
Referee - Tom Nield
Assistant Referee 1 – Andrew Dallison
Assistant Referee 2 – Mark Russell
Fourth Official – Aaron Bannister
STAFF LIST
Honorary Club President - Alan Curtis MBE
Directors
Andy Coleman, Brett Cravatt, Jason Cohen, George Popstefanov, Chris Sznewajs, Tyler Morse, Nigel Morris, Todd Marcelle, Keith English, Martin Morgan, Paul Meller.
Chief Executive Officer: Tom Gorringe
Associate Directors: Diane Hughes
Minority Owners: Luka Modrić, Snoop Dogg, Martha Stewart
FIRST-TEAM STAFF
Head Coach - Vitor Matos
Assistant Head Coach - Ryan Maye
Head of Goalkeeping – Martyn Margetson
First Team Coach - Kris O'Leary
Head of Medical - Dr Jez McCluskey
Staff: Leon Britton, Joe Allen, Toze Mendes, Goncalo Ricca, Ailsa Jones, Matt Murray, Thomas Gittoes, Michael Eames, Shaun Baggridge, Adam Mahoney, Patrick Orme, Lewis Binns, Chris Watkins, Jack Oliver, Harri Mathias, James Cole.
MANAGEMENT TEAM
Chief Executive Officer: Tom Gorringe
Head of Operations and Facilities: Andrew Davies
Head of Football Operations and Administration: Ben Greenwood
Head of Commercial: George Alston
Head of Media and Communications: Andrew Gwilym
Head of Safeguarding: Rebeca Storer
HR Manager: Nicola Butt
Head of Facilities: Gordon David
Head of Supporter Services: Hayley Ford
Head of IT: Jonathan Jones
Head of Swansea City AFC Foundation: Paul France
CLUB STAFF
Football Operations & Administration Manager: Rebecca Gigg
Head of Partnerships: Lee Merrells
Head of Hospitality: Catherine Thomas
Head of Ticketing: Mari Tucker
Grounds Manager: Evan Davies
Club Ambassador: Lee Trundle
PROGRAMME PRODUCTION
Contributors: Andrew Gwilym, Rachael Tucker, Cerith White, Jack Otter, Sophie Davis, Mackenzie Squires, Sammy Wynne, Hayley Ford, Owen Morgan, Julie Kissick, Gwyn Rees, James Dow.
Designers: Callum Rothwell, Jac Elsey.