Swansea City v Preston North End – 20-21 – Issue 22

Cadwch yn ddiogel Jacks

Issue 22 - Digital Copy

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Swansea City v Preston North End Monday, April 5 - Kick-off 3pm

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CONTENTS Page 15 - Cabango Puts Pen to Paper

Page 18 - Meet the Opposition

Page 23 - Match Report

Page 28 - Q&A with Conor Hourihane

Page 36 - Al-Hamadi Relishing Role

Polite Warning: The British courts have now imposed a standard minimum three-year ban from all football grounds for football-related arrests – both inside and outside the ground. CCTV is currently in operation inside and outside the stadium, while police are also using handheld video cameras.

Offences include: obscene or racist chanting or gesturing; consuming alcohol in seated areas; continual standing in seated areas; aggressive behaviour; going onto the pitch; throwing of items; drunk and disorderly behaviour or under the influence of drugs. Please note there is also a no-smoking policy within the stadium. If broken, you could be ejected. Sales of goods inside and outside the stadium is prohibited unless via official registered sellers. The club badge is a registered trademark and unauthorised use of it will not be permitted. High-quality cameras are not permitted inside the stadium.

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YDYCH CHI EISIAU CAEL EFFAITH AR Y DIWYDIANT CHWARAEON?

DO YOU WANT TO HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE SPORT INDUSTRY?

Allech chi fod yn rhan o’r tîm datblygu busnes, masnachol neu lywodraethu chwaraeon yn eich hoff sefydliad?

Could you be part of the business development, commercial or sport governance team at your favourite organisation?

Bydd y radd MSc Rheolaeth (Chwaraeon), sydd yn flwyddyn o hyd ym Mhrifysgol Abertawe, yn rhoi’r sgiliau a’r wybodaeth i chi sbarduno newid a datblygu eich gyrfa ym myd cyffrous chwaraeon.

The year-long, MSc Management (Sport) degree at Swansea University, will give you the skills and knowledge to drive change and advance your career in the exciting world of sport.

DARGANFYDDWCH MSC RHEOLAETH (CHWARAEON)

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Yn ôl Pennaeth Masnachol Clwb Pêl-droed Dinas Abertawe, Rebecca Edwards-Symmons: “Heb os byddai’r cwrs yn cynnig mantais gystadleuol i chi yn erbyn pob ymgeisydd arall wrth gyflwyno cais am rôl mewn chwaraeon. Mae’r sgiliau y byddai’r cwrs yn eu rhoi ichi yn gyflawn ac mae’n cyfleu realiti’r ffordd mae busnesau chwaraeon yn gweithio.”

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EXPLORE MSC MANAGEMENT (SPORT)

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Head of Commercial at Swansea City AFC, Rebecca Edwards-Symmons, comments: “The course would definitely give you an advantageous edge against any other applicant when applying for a role in sport. The skills that the course will give you are well rounded and it’s the reality of how sports businesses work.”

WATCH ALL THE

CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES VISIT SWANSEACITY.COM

Chief Executive Julian Winter Board Of Directors Directors: Romie Chaudhari, Bobby Hernreich, Huw Jenkins, Jason Levien, Stuart McDonald, Martin Morgan, Gareth Davies, Julian Winter, Jake Silverstein, Sam Porter Honorary Club President: Alan Curtis; Associate Directors: David Morgan, Cath Dyer Team Management Head Coach: Steve Cooper Assistant Coach: Mike Marsh Behind the Team Goalkeeping Coach: Martyn Margetson Head of Medicine: Dr Jez McCluskey Head of Performance Analysis: Steve Rands Head of Recruitment: Andy Scott Academy Director: Mark Allen Staff: David Tivey, Ritson Lloyd, Alan Tate, Ailsa Jones, Matthew Murray, Adele Callaghan, Daniel Morris, Lee Watkins, Chris Watkins, Tom Jenkinson, Daniel Nisbett, Michael Eames, Shaun Baggridge, Huw Lake, Ashley Gill, Steffan Popham

Senior Management Group Andrew Davies (Head of Operations, Facilities & Development); Gareth Davies (CFO); Rebecca Edwards-Symmons (Head of Commercial) Club Staff Club Secretary: Ben Greenwood Assistant Football Secretary: Rebecca Gigg Head of Retail: Andrea Morris Head of Hospitality & Customer Services: Catherine Thomas Legal Counsel, Head of Safeguarding: Rebeca Storer HR Manager: Nicola Butt Senior Commercial Sponsorship Manager: Lee Merrells Commercial Marketing Manager: Katie Hughes Head of Media & Communications: Ben Donovan Media Manager: Chris Wilson-Barney Ticket Office Manager: Luke Hughes Operations & Events Manager: Matthew Daniel Facilities Manager: Gordon David Grounds Manager: Anthony Harry Disability Access Officer: Mark Phillips Community Trust Manager: Helen Elton Club Ambassador: Lee Trundle

Programme Production Contributors: Alex Bennett, Ben Donovan, Chris Wilson-Barney, Andrew Gwilym, Jonathan Davies, Sophie Davis, Julie Kissick, Alun Rhys Chivers, Adam Evans, Gwyn Rees, Ben Jones, Dylan James, Luke Evans, Rachael Tucker Designers: Callum Rothwell, Jordan Morcom Photography: Athena Picture Agency, Natalie Davis, PA, REX Print: DWJ Group Ltd Swansea City AFC Liberty Stadium, Landore, Swansea, SA10 2FA CP-D Dinas Abertawe Stadiwm Liberty, Landore, Abertawe, SA1 2FA Telephone/Ffôn: 01792 616400 Web/Gwe: swanseacity.com Email/E-bost: info@swanseacity.com

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Chief Executive’s Notes

JULIAN WINTER G

ood afternoon and welcome back to the Liberty Stadium for today’s Championship game against Preston North End.

Due to print deadlines, I’m writing these notes prior to our trip to Birmingham so hopefully we are looking to round off a positive Easter weekend with a good result this afternoon.

It was great to see several of our players involved for their countries during the international break, both at senior and youth level.

Unfortunately, one of our own in Ben Cabango had to endure unacceptable abuse via social media – something which has been far too common recently.

Ben is a proud Welshman and making his first senior start for his country is a great moment for both him and his family. Sadly we ended up again talking about the issue of racism, which is a stain on the game we all love.

As a football club Ben has our unwavering support and once again we urge social media companies to go above and beyond to impose suitable

restrictions and combat such abhorrent levels of abuse on their platforms.

The club recently announced news regarding our sec ond structured dialogue forum, which will take place via Zoom on April 12. This is an opportunity for fans to meet with key decision-makers and ask questions of particular importance, or the supporter base they represent. While this event is limited in numbers, the full minutes will be published on our website following the forum for all supporters to have access to what was discussed.

I have no doubt that season tickets might be one of those topics on the agenda, and our sales for 2021-22 have been hugely encouraging so far. April 1st saw more seats become available on general sale and it is great to see so many supporters taking up a season ticket for the first time.

We want to remember those we have lost, with the club and the Supporters Trust overseeing the installation of a plaque for any season ticket holder or Trust member who has passed away during the pandemic.

We hope this tribute will provide some comfort and support to all those who have been affected because we stand together on this as a family, and that is what makes this club so special.

Finally, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to the management, players, staff and directors from Preston who have made the long trip to Wales for today’s game.

A s always, we thank you for your continued support from afar during these difficult times and let’s all look forward to what we hope is an exciting end to the season.

Enjoy the game,

As we are all aware, matches continue to be played behind closed doors and we recently communicated to our supporters about the club’s plans to unveil a Covid-19 remembrance wall here at the Liberty Stadium.

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Head Coach’s Notes

STEVE COOPER G

ood afternoon everyone as we look ahead to this afternoon’s Championship fixture with Preston at the Liberty Stadium.

I’m sure you’re all looking forward to the game as we take in our second match in the space of three days.

I’m writing these in advance of the Birmingham City game, so I’m hoping we are going into today’s fixture on the back of a win.

Our return to action came via a short break due to the international window, where a number of our players represented their countries at various levels.

Andre Ayew captained Ghana to victory over Sao Tome and Principe which ensured his team finished off their Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign in top spot in their group.

Jamal Lowe made his international debut for Jamaica, and scored.

It’s always a huge moment for any footballer to play on the international stage, and we are very proud of Jamal and his achievement.

Marc Guehi was part of England Under-21s’s plans during their three-game schedule, while we also had a number of lads in action for Wales Under-18s.

Connor Roberts and Ben Cabango were also involved for Wales in the matches against Belgium, Mexico and the Czech Republic, while Brandon Cooper was called up, which was a fantastic experience for him to be around the senior team.

Connor started both qualifiers against Belgium and the Czech Republic, and was unfortunately sent off for a double booking late on.

Ben made his first start for Wales against Mexico, and that was a proud achievement for him. We are very proud of Ben too, for the person and the player that he is.

He’s got a great attitude and is always looking to develop to become a better footballer.

Starting against Mexico was a big moment for Ben, but that joy was tarnished after he was subjected to racial abuse on social media afterwards.

I’ve spoken to Ben about the situation and he knows he has the full support from myself, the staff, his team-mates and everyone connected to Swansea City.

Meanwhile, during the international break I took part in two webinars with Swansea University – one with the football club and another with the wider staff within the university.

I had the opportunity to talk about leadership, coaching and education, and I was really happy with the chance to engage with them on those topics and share my experiences and knowledge.

Finally, our captain Matt Grimes shared the fantastic news last week that his partner is expecting a baby, which is due in October.

I’m sure all of you will want to congratulate them both!

Enjoy the game.

As a club, we have called on social media platforms to do more following the recent abuse suffered by Yan Dhanda.

It is clear that not enough is being done to stamp out this kind of vile behaviour, and footballers continue to receive this disgusting treatment on social media.

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MATT GRIMES Captain’s Notes

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ood afternoon to you all watching today’s game from around the world.

I am writing these notes before our G ood Friday game with Birmingham City because of the print deadlines, so I’m hoping we have picked up three points by the time you’re reading this.

Prior to that game, some of the squad had an opportunity to rest up and recharge during the international break, which wa s n e e d e d a s i t h a s b e e n a heavily congested and demanding season.

Of course, a number of the lads were on international duty, which is always a great honour for them.

Jamal Lowe made his debut for Jamaica and capped that o ff w i t h a g o a l , w h i c h w a s fantastic for him.

It was great to see Ben Cabango pick up his first start for Wales in the friendly win over Mexico. However, it was hugely disappointing to see Ben faced with racial abuse on social media. Once again we are

talking about people receiving disgusting abuse on social media platforms, and once again we are demanding that the companies involved take immediate action because not enough is being done to stamp this out.

As a friend and team-mate, Ben has the total support of each and every player in this squad.

Back to club duty, we were hugely disappointed to have lost at home to Cardiff. I felt we played well, dominated and created so many chances, but in the end we just couldn’t get the ball in the net.

Now we focus on the remaining games, and we are in a good position going into the last batch of fixtures.

Our attitude here is to prepare for the most important game – that’s always the next one.

A lot has happened since then, but we are in an encouraging position and I’m sure you’re all looking forward to seeing how the rest of this season unfolds.

Finally, we were disappointed to see Paul Arriola return to DC United last week and cut short his loan spell due to injury.

Paul suffered a recurrence of his thigh injury, and as a result h e’ s h a d t o f l y b a c k t o t h e States for his rehab.

Despite being with us for only a few months, Paul was a really good guy who was well liked in the squad. He was a good player too, and it’s a big shame that we didn’t get to see much of him on the pitch.

Enjoy the match!

It’s a boring old cliché I know, but it’s the best approach for us.

It seems a long time since we went to Preston on the opening day of the season, where a goal from Morgan Gibbs-White helped us to a 1-0 win.

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Ministry

Group

Ministry

Graphics

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fter the disappointment of our losses against Cardiff and Bournemouth, many were looking forward to the international break - not only to give the squad and management the opportunity to recharge batteries but also the chance for everyone to regroup and to refocus on the run in.

Automatic promotion to the Premier League is still very much within our grasp.

Everyone was appalled therefore, to have the break interrupted by the awful news that two of our Welsh players, including our own Ben Cabango, were racially abused on social media after the Wales game against Mexico.

We share the absolute frustration of everyone that this continues and totally support the club’s response as well as that of sports fans everywhere. When will this stop? When will these idiots who blight our lives learn that there is NO place within football and our wider society for racism and abuse? When will the social media companies finally act? Surely, they have the technology.

They and governments must act now and show they mean business. It cannot and must not continue.

Meanwhile, the work of your Supporters’ Trust continues.

Working closely with the club, a Covid-19 Remembrance Wall is being created outside the South Stand at the Liberty Stadium. We hope this will provide comfort to those who have been affected in these unprecedented times. Further details can be seen on our website, which incidentally, is having a makeover during the next few months. We have already removed the advertising that many members were finding irritating and spoiling the

enjoyment of reading the many articles and information on the site. Look out for further improvements.

We continue to communicate with our members via all means possible. Social media is an important tool in achieving that. Our presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram continues to grow and we aim to ensure all members learn of what we are doing on their behalf via these platforms. We are working on a fans forum in the coming weeks, so keep a look out for details.

Back on the field. By the time you see this, we hope our return to league action against Birmingham would have resulted in a win. We also hope all our players who turned out for their countries on international duties returned fit. We need everyone available to launch us into a successful run in with automatic promotion to the Premier League, or the play-offs, very much achievable.

Today, we welcome Preston to the Liberty. Games against The Lilywhites always invoke memories of our 1964 FA Cup semi-final defeat to them at Villa Park and our fantastic win under John Toshack in 1981, which secured our promotion to the then equivalent of today’s Premier League - the First Division. Heady days.

We’ll also see the return to the Liberty of Scott Sinclair, one of our heroes of the 2011 play-off win v Reading.

Let’s hope for a fine performance and a good win to maintain our momentum.

Enjoy the game. #YJB

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CABANGO SIGNS NEW DEAL WITH THE SWANS

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wansea City defender Ben Cabango has signed a new contract through to the summer of 2025.

“This is something Ben 100 per cent deserves, he has been brilliant since he joined the first-team squad,” said head coach Steve Cooper.

The 20-year-old’s previous deal had been due to expire at the end of the 2022-23 season, but he has now tied his longer-term future to the Swans after another impressive campaign.

“How he has developed and progressed as a person and a player has been a real credit to him.

The Wales international has made 29 appearances in all competitions so far this term, scoring four goals.

He has made 55 appearances in total since making his debut in the Carabao Cup win over Northampton at the start of last season.

Cabango has been with the Swans since the age of 14, captaining the club at all youth levels.

He spent the first half of the 2018-19 season on loan at TNS, and became the first Swansea player to score in a Champions League fixture during his time with the Cymru Premier side.

“It’s the right thing to reward him with the right contract, and it also shows the belief he has in us and the progress we want to make as a club.

“He has a chance to be a big part of that, he is only going to get better and there is more to come.

“The biggest compliment you can pay him is that, at 20, he is viewed as an established player in the first team. It tell you everything about the character he is.

“Congratulations to him and his family, and we cannot wait to continue our work with him.”

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SWANS & SOUTH WALES POLICE WANT TO TACKLE HATE CRIME

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outh Wales Police has joined forces with Swansea City Football Club to tackle hate crime. Hate crime is any crime motivated or perceived to be motivated by hostility or prejudice to someone’s race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. Hate crime comes in many different forms such as verbal abuse, assault or damage and can have a huge impact not only on individuals but also the wider community.

P C A nne O ver ton, hate crime offic er, s aid: “ We would like to thank Swansea City AFC for helping us raise awareness of hate crime. Sport is a key area where we can all work together to

instil an inclusive culture that tackles racist and homophobic behaviour. There is no place for hate in our communities including in sport.”

South Wales Police takes hate crime seriously we have specialist officers who oversee the investigation of hate crime and make contact with all hate crime victims.

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PRESTON NORTH END

FACT FILE OWNER

NICKNAME

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PNE Limited @pnefc

STADIUM Deepdale

The Lilywhites

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@OfficialPNEFC

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23,404

OPENED

THE GAFFER

The Scot had been appointed interim head coach while the search for a full-time successor to Alex Neil gets under way.

McAvoy started his coaching career working in the Dunfermline and Hamilton academies, going on to join Neil’s first-team staff with the Academicals.

The pair guided them to promotion to the top-flight, and repeated the feat in England with Norwich before their time at North End.

CLUB CAPTAIN

The Republic of Ireland international has been a stalwart at Deepdale, and is now in his eighth year with the club having joined from Cork City in 2014.

The midfielder helped Preston return to the Championship via the play-offs in 2015 and has been an integral and influential figure during his time at the club.

Browne scored his first senior international goal in the Republic’s defeat to Serbia during the international break.

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FOUNDED

@pnefcoffical

ALAN BROWNE FRANKIE M CAVOY*

CLUB DETAILS SOCIAL MEDIA FACILITIES

CAPACITY

STADIUM MEET THE OPPOSITION

Preston have firmly established themselves in the second tier since their promotion from League One at the end of the 2014-15 season, and have regularly been play-off contenders. They are one of few sides who have twice lifted the FA Cup, once in 1889 and again in 1938 They were also the First Division champions during the maiden year of the Football League in 1888-89, and followed that up by retaining the title the following season.

PRESTON’S FORM**

At the time of writing Preston have won just one of their last nine Championship games, and that sequence saw the club part company with manager Alex Neil at the outset of the international break.

However, they have found wins easier to come by on their travels, winning nine games away from Deepdale in all competitions, compared to six on home turf.

THE KEY MEN

Former Swansea forward Scott Sinclair has proved Preston’s most potent attacking threat with nine goals to his name so far this term.

Midfielder Daniel Johnson has five goals and three assists to his name and has been an important figure over recent seasons.

Exciting Everton youngster Anthony Gordon joined on loan in January, while Ched Evans is another recent arrival from Fleetwood. *Interim manager. **Correct as of March 31, 2021.

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ONES TO WATCH

ANDREW HUGHES

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Cardiff-born Hughes was released by his hometown club before joining Newport County and spending six years with the Exiles. Hughes helped Newport to promotion t o L e a g u e Tw o, b e f o r e joining Peterborough United. Made the switch to Preston in June 2018 and proved a solid figure in his first season at Deepdale, amassing 34 appearances.

POSITION

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The Danish stopper joined the Lilywhites on loan from Leicester City in January.

He’s managed four clean sheets in his time at Deepdale, having joined the club the same day he ended a loan spell with Belgian outfit OH Leuven.

Has featured at all youth levels for his country, but is still waiting for his first senior cap.

DANIEL IVERSEN

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SCOTT SINCLAIR

This man needs no introduction to Swans fans, playing a key role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League in 2011. Started his career at Bristol Rovers before moving to Chelsea, Sinclair made the switch to SA1 in 2010, scoring 27 goals in his debut season – including a hat-trick in the play-off final.

He scored a further eight times in the Premier League before moving to Manchester City in the summer of 2012. Spells at West Brom, Aston Villa and Celtic followed before his switch to Preston in 2019.

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The Republic of Ireland international started his career with Waterford. His form there attracted West Ham’s attention, although he would be released without making a first-team appearance. A successful loan spell with Accrington Stanley saw him score seven goals in 33 games, while he returned to Ireland and won a string of honours while representing Sligo Rovers, Dundalk and Cork City. Joined Preston in the summer of 2017, and has comfortably passed 100 appearances for the club.

Evans begun his career with Rhyl, before joining Manchester City via Chester.

Made 16 Premier League appearances for the Citizens, along with a successful loan spell with Norwich City, before a £3m move to Sheffield United in 2009.

Spent three years at Bramall Lane, scoring 29 goals in 36 league appearances in his final season with the Blades. A spell at Fleetwood followed before he moved to Deepdale earlier this year.

SEAN MAGUIRE

CHED EVANS 21

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SWANSEA CITY 0 CARDIFF CITY 1 MATCH DETAILS DATE: SATURDAY, MARCH 20 VENUE: LIBERTY STADIUM REFEREE: PAUL TIERNEY

MATCH REPORT S

LINEUPS Swans: Freddie Woodman; Kyle Naughton (Jamal Lowe 76), Ryan Bennett, Marc Guehi; Connor Roberts, Jay Fulton (Yan Dhanda 80), Matt Grimes (captain), Conor Hourihane (Korey Smith 18), Jake Bidwell (Ryan Manning 76); Morgan Whittaker, Andre Ayew.

Subs not used: Ben Hamer, Ryan Manning, Ben Cabango, Joel Latibeaudiere, Wayne Routledge, Ollie Cooper.

wansea City suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time this season as A den Flint ’s early header settled the South Wales derby.

Cardiff City: Dillon Phillips; Sean Morrison (captain), Aden Flint, Ciaron Brown; Thomas Sang, Leandro Bacuna (Josh Murphy 66), Will Vaulks, Marlon Pack, Joe Ralls; Harry Wilson (Sheyi Ojo 84); Kieffer Moore.

The centre-back nodded in from close range in the eighth minute and, despite heavy pressure from the hosts for much of the final hour, the hosts could not find a leveller.

Subs not used: Alex Smithies, Jonny Williams, Max Watters, Mark Harris, Junior Hoilett, Rubin Colwill, Sam Bowen.

Andre Ayew went closest to an equaliser, as he glanced a Connor Roberts corner against the far post in the second half, while Morgan Whittaker was twice denied by keeper Dillon Phillips.

There was also an injury blow for the Swans after Conor Hourihane was forced off inside the first 20 minutes due to a hamstring problem.

QUOTE OF THE GAME “IT’S HARD TO TAKE BECAUSE WE HAVE DOMINATED EVERY STATISTIC YOU CAN THINK OF, BUT NOT THE ONE THAT MATTERS.” STEVE COOPER

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STILETTOS & STUDS

BY JULIE KISSICK

H

ere we go then folks, the end is nigh – the final stretch of the season is in full swing and the countdown has begun.

Dramatic, eh? Yes, but every fan is familiar with the drama induced by the last few games of the season and this year is no exception.

P rior to the international break there was a b i t of a d i p i n fo r m a n d r e s u l t s , e s p e c i a l l y against our nearest rivals up the road. T hat was disappointing, but there really is no time to dwell.

International duty came calling for some of the squad and for other s , the chanc e to change the pace up a bit, have a break from the normal routine and the familiar faces, and recharge the batteries.

I’m writing this before the Birmingham City game but being very optimistic about the final phase of the season (that ’s our job as supporters, surely) I’m hoping we bagged three points and got our bid for automatic promotion back on track.

I’m well aware that the Hornets are buzzing around second spot and Norwich City look pretty immovable perched at the helm, but Watford don’t have an easy schedule, facing six teams in the top 10 before the end of the season.

Of course, there are no ‘easy ’ games at this s t a g e of t h e c a m p a i g n , b u t l e t ’ s h o p e t h e international break came at the right time.

If you’re a regular reader of this column, you’ll know that I’m fascinated by psychology and I’ ve recently been introduced to sports psychologist Dan Abrahams.

He wrote a piece based on a quote from a poem by 19th century writer, Thomas Hardy: “If way to the better there be, it exacts a full look at the worst.”

He used the ex ample of a player who get s his first professional contract in the Premier League at 18 and who can’t afford to think he’s made it because he got the contract, now he has to ‘start again’, to keep improving in order to move from being a squad player to being in the first team. “ What got you here won’t get you there,” said Abrahams. And, he’s right, because ultimately progress out of this league is the primary goal for our team.

D oing that aut omatic ally is preferable, for players and fans. Yes, the excitement of the play-offs is fantastic if you win, but dear me, if you don’t, the feeling of deflation is horrible and haunting.

Today’s visitors, Preston North End, are firmly concentrating their efforts on avoiding being dragged further down the table.

Following the departure of Alex Neil, Frankie McAvoy is in interim charge until the end of the season.

Securing Championship status is his aim and he told the media that he would “do whatever is needed to achieve that.”

His first game in charge was against Norwich at Deepdale on Friday night. Today, they face us. That’s something of a baptism of fire for the new man at the helm.

Two s i d e s w i t h d i ffe r e n t g o a l s t o a c h i e ve, both requiring a three-point result . It should be a good game.

Said in the voice of Wyndham Evans: “Come on you Swans!”

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WELSH COLUMN

BY ALUN RHYS CHIVERS, GOLWG

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wi’n ysgrifennu’r erthygl hon cyn y gêm yn erbyn Birmingham, gan obeithio y bydd yr E lyrch wedi gadael S t . A ndrew ’s â’r triphwynt ar nos Wener y Groglith.

Fe fu’n ffenest ryngwladol brysur i rai o’r Elyrch, nid lleiaf i Ben Cabango, a ddechreuodd gêm dros Gymru am y tro cyntaf yn erbyn Mecsico, ac i Jamal Lowe, oedd wedi sgorio yn ei gêm gyntaf dros Jamaica yn y golled o 4-1 yn erbyn yr Unol Daleithiau. Llongyfarchiadau mawr i’r ddau.

Gobeithio y gall Lowe ychwanegu at ei naw gôl i’r Elyrch y tymor hwn – a Cabango at ei bedair!

Ar yr un pryd, mae sefyllfa Andre Ayew yn destun pryder unwaith eto, gyda’r ymosodwr wedi gadael y cae ag anaf ar ddiwedd gêm Ghana yn erbyn São Tomé a Príncipe. Daw hynny ar ôl iddo fe hepgor y gêm yn erbyn De Affrica er mwyn sicrhau na fyddai’n rhaid iddo fe fynd i gwarantîn cyn dychwelyd i Abertawe. Gyda’r Elyrch yn drydydd yn y tabl ac yn closio at y safleoedd dyrchafiad awtomatig, does dim amheuaeth y bydd Ayew, os yw’n ffit, yn allweddol yn y naw gêm sy’n weddill ac yntau eisoes wedi rhwydo 14 o weithiau yn y Bencampwriaeth.

Doedd colli yn erbyn Caerdydd ddim yn ddelfrydol o bell ffordd cyn y seibiant ar gyfer y gemau rhyngwladol. Wrth ddychwelyd ar ôl y seibiant, roedd chwe phwynt rhwng yr Elyrch a Watford yn yr ail safle awtomatig, ond roedd tîm Steve Cooper wedi chwarae un gêm yn llai.

Mae’n siŵr y bydd Jamal Lowe yn cofio’r gêm flaenorol yn erbyn Preston yn Deepdale ’nôl ym mis Medi – ei gêm gyntaf yng nghrys yr Elyrch, a’i fuddugoliaeth gyntaf hefyd wrth i Morgan GibbsWhite, ar fenthyg o Wolves ar y pryd, sgorio unig gôl y gêm a’r Elyrch yn codi i’r safleoedd ail gyfle.

Mae gan yr Elyrch gyfle da i gipio triphwynt yn erbyn tîm sydd heb fuddugoliaeth yn eu pum gêm ers curo Huddersfield o 3-0 ddiwedd mis Chwefror. Maen nhw ’n unfed ar bymtheg ac mewn perygl o ganfod eu hunain yng nghanol brwydr i aros yn yr adran tua diwedd y tymor pe bai’r rhediad gwael yn parhau. Ond mae’r bounce effect ar waith yn Deepdale, lle mae Frankie McAvoy yng ngofal y tîm yn dilyn ymadawiad Alex Neil wythnos yn ôl.

Un gêm ar y tro fu neges Steve Cooper ers y diwrnod y cerddodd e i mewn i Stadiwm Liberty am y tro cyntaf, a dydy hynny ddim yn debygol o newid. Ond o edrych ar y gemau sydd i ddod, mae’n anodd peidio â chyffroi wrth feddwl bod gan yr Elyrch gyfle gwych i ennill dyrchafiad heb fod angen y gemau ail gyfle – ac fe allai’r cyfan ddod i lawr i ddiwrnod ola’r tymor mewn gêm enfawr yn erbyn Watford. Byddai triphwynt heddiw’n ddechrau da i gymal ola’r daith i geisio cyrraedd y brig unwaith yn rhagor.

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Q&A WITH CONOR HOURIHANE

Age: 30 Position: Midfielder Nationality: Irish Clubs: Sunderland, 0 Apps, Ipswich Town, 0 Apps, Plymouth Argyle, 125 Apps 15 Goals, Barnsley, 112 Apps 29 Goals, Aston Villa, 132 Apps 23 Goals, Swansea City (Loan), 13 Apps 5 Goals

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CONOR HOURIHANE ONLY ARRIVED AT SWANSEA CITY IN JANUARY, BUT HE HAS WASTED LITTLE TIME MAKING AN IMPACT WITH FIVE GOALS TO HIS NAME ALREADY. HERE, THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND INTERNATIONAL TALKS US THROUGH GROWING UP IN THE SAME HOMETOWN AS GRAHAM NORTON, THE INFLUENCE OF FELLOW CORK BOY ROY KEANE ON HIS CAREER, AND WHY HE TOOK THE DECISION TO LEAVE THE TOP DIVISIONS TO PLAY IN LEAGUE TWO.

How do you see things ahead of this final run-in?

You were part of an Aston Villa side that strung a run of 10 wins together at a key juncture in your promotion season, what is the key to a sequence like that at a key period?

Conor, it feels like time has flown since you arrived at Swansea City in January, but you’ve already had some memorable moments such as your free-kick against Brentford. How do you feel things have gone?

I don’t think there’s a definite answer to where a run like that comes from, if there was and I knew it then I’m sure I would have an awful lot of people beating a path to my door.

It has been fine in terms of settling in. It’s been a bit strange for me in that it’s the first loan move of my career, and as a 30-year-old that does feel a bit odd. There’s also a pandemic to deal with in terms of trying to discover a new area. But it’s a very warm football club and everyone has been great from the players, to the head coach, the staff and all the people here. It’s felt very easy, to be fair and taking in some of the views from the beaches has been great.

I know there is a pressure with the loan, and there is an onus on you to hit the ground running.

Some players come in and don’t play as much as they would like, some don’t fit in with the style of play, but for me I felt this was really important to come here and kick on.

I definitely feel I made the right move, wherever I have played I care about the club I represent.

Obviously, I want to do well from a selfish point of view, but I also want to make sure I help that club achieve what it wants to achieve and be successful.I know how great promotion is, and I know what is at the end of the road and I want to help this club get over that line.

CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE...

You just get into that snowball effect. I think we have been quite close to putting a run like that together here. We have had runs of maybe four or five games, and it’s sometimes just that one more that just sets everything off.

T hat ’s not to s ay there’s not a lot of good happening here because of that; you just look at that league table. That does not lie, we are there because this is a very good team.

And in terms of those runs you can need a little bit of a luck, or you can come through a few close calls and they make a big difference.

When you joined you spoke about how desperate you were to play, and with the way the schedule has been that has not been a problem. How have you found that relentless turnover of games?

I ’ ve g ot t o b e h o n e s t , I ’ ve l ove d i t . I a m a footb all player, I want t o play footb all and that’s what my job is.

In the Premier League you can go long spells between games. You could be on Friday Night Football one week, and on Monday Night Football the following week. That’s 10 days between games and it’s a long, long time.

So, for me, to just be playing constantly has been great. The travelling is hard, but I also find the travelling means I am not spending three or four days coming home and staring at the walls of my flat. I have something to move on to, to keep me focused and not thinking about being away from family.

I l i ke t o b e b u sy, a n d b e c ra c k i n g o nt o t h e next one.

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You grew up in Bandon in Cork, it’s best known as Graham Norton’s hometown. It’s a small place but it’s produced a number of notable figures over the years.

What was it like as a place to grow up?

Yeah, a lot of people mention Graham Norton, in fact he went to the same school as me although obviously not at the same time.

It’s a lovely place with some beautiful countryside there in West Cork. I am very fond of the city and I would love to get back there more than I do.

From a football point of view Cork has a reputation for producing footballers. Roy Keane is probably the most famous one, but you also have Denis Irwin and Stephen Ireland is another.

It’s an area with a rich sporting heritage, notable with Munster rugby and in Gaelic football. Were you always about football first, or did you sample any other sports and have heroes in those sports?

I was sports mad as a kid. I lived across from a rugby pitch so I dabbled in that, I fancied myself as a bit of an outside half, mainly because I loved kicking the ball! So there’s that connection to football I suppose!

I played GAA and hurling in my childhood, but I did love soccer – which we call it in Ireland as Gaelic football is considered to be ‘football’ – but whatever I could get hold of I would try it and I think that was good for me.

Roy Keane was a big hero of mine, a huge figure in the city and the country. There were hurling players like Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, who was Cork captain and won the All-Ireland title when I was growing up.

Hurling and football captains who win All-Ireland titles are always big figures in the area they are from.

With football I was a big Manchester United fan and my Dad would take us over quite a few times a season to watch games. We started in the late 90s with that great side; Scholes, Keane, Giggs, Beckham.

So how did your own playing career develop?

Believe it or not I started off as a striker, got moved to left midfield for a bit, and then into central midfield.

I started off with Bandon, then moved to Douglas Hall and Cork City. From the age of 14 or 15, as I was about to get my YTS at Cork City, there were scouts coming to watch games and offering trials.

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There was Celtic, Liverpool and Southampton.

I wanted to sign for Southampton actually, but they were in administration and had to withdraw the contract.

George Burley was the manager and they had so many great young players there, guys like Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, Nathan Dyer, Adam Lallana, David McGoldrick, to name a few.

At that time Roy Keane became Sunderland manager, I had a trial and decided to go there. The rest is history I guess.

There was a big Irish connection there, Niall Quinn was in the boardroom and they had a number of Irish players so it felt like a place I could settle into. Roy was an influence, but there was a large Irish contingent there.

What was Roy Keane like to work with?

My experience with him was excellent, he looked out for other lads from Cork coming through. He knew what it was like to come over to England from Cork, and he had a keen eye for that.

I have nothing but good things to say about him, he signed me twice as I went on to go to Ipswich when he was there. He has also been my assistant manager with Ireland, and I have nothing but great things to say about him.

After those spells with Sunderland and Ipswich you made the brave move to join Plymouth Argyle in League Two. What was the thinking behind that, because there would probably have been a number of players who would have been prepared to wait it out in the Premier League or Championship?

I think when you are a young lad who has come over and moved to a new country at the age of 15 or 16, you have to mature quickly because otherwise this industry will just eat you up. You can have places you don’t settle, places you don’t play, you might not handle the training and you can quickly pack your bags and be on your way home.

But I have always been determined to overcome challenges and setbacks, I feel I can brush them aside and keep moving forward. I think that has been a big help.

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So, when it came to that, I knew I was 19, I had not played any first-team games and my contract was coming to an end. I had to go and play somewhere and give it a crack.

It was sink or swim time if I wanted to be a footballer.

It’s a short career, what would I have gained from sitting around somewhere waiting to play? I’d rather take the difficult road in that situation.

I didn’t see it as a drop in level, my attitude was ‘let’s go’. I had an awful lot to prove. It was an opportunity to play and start going back up the leagues. I had to make the most of it to make the most of myself.

Peter Reid signed me – there was a Sunderland connection there – and he gave me the chance to play, and Carl Fletcher and John Sheridan came in after him and were both great in their own right. They were all great central midfielders, so how lucky was I to work under people like that?

And then you made the move to Barnsley after an impressive spell with Plymouth. You helped Barnsley get to the Championship and win the Football League Trophy. That must rank as a special time in your career?

Yeah it was, funny enough Danny Wilson signed me and he was another former centre midfielder! It was a chance in a higher league, they were the only club in for me at the time and I had a fantastic time there.

That is a club I hold very fond to my heart now, they put me on the map really. We had great success there, we won at Wembley twice. I have been back there a few times since and they are a fantastic club and I was in the right place at the right time.

I still speak to Paul Heckingbottom as he was my boss there, and a few of the other lads. I had a great time there.

When it came to interest from Aston Villa, I’m guessing it was too good for Barnsley to turn down, and too good an opportunity for you, too? It would also see you work your way back up to the Premier League.

My goal all along had been to get back to the Premier League, so to achieve that was very special. When the move came about, you are looking at what might give you the best chance to do that, and it doesn’t take long to understand how big a club Aston Villa are.

It is just a massive club and it was a chance I could not turn down. Fulham and Sheffield Wednesday were in for me, I didn’t want to join Wednesday as I felt that would have been a kick in the teeth to Barnsley, but I felt settled living further north.

It was the place I wanted to go, and I enjoyed the pressure of it. Not everyone can handle playing in front of 45,000 every week, but I loved it. What a fantastic stage it is to perform on and we have had some success there too.

It’s a proper club, and I underestimated it when I first joined, but to get them back in the Premier League was great.

It’s not all been easy, there have been some tough times like losing that first play-off final. We lost the Carabao Cup final, but also stayed up from nowhere.

So, coming back to Swansea, you are a player who is used to coming down the final stretch of a season with plenty on the line. Does that help in the scenario the club are currently in?

I love it when things are that way. It was the same for me at Barnsley and it has been the same almost throughout my time at Villa.

It is exciting. Your career is short, so you always want to be involved in a team that is striving for something. You want games to have something on them, to be important and be a factor in what the future of the club holds.

I will always take that over playing 10 games at the end of the year in mid-table. Don’t get me wrong, you always want to win and perform, but knowing you are fighting for promotion or to avoid relegation is a different feeling.

I know what’s it like getting promoted to the Premier League, and I know what it’s like coming down that stretch and I loved it. You’re a footballer, this is what you want, to be fighting to achieve things at the business end of the season.

I am excited about, I can tell you that without any doubt.

You walk in there and the European Cup is in the trophy cabinet, so that is the level of club you are going to with all the history and expectation that comes with it.

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T

JACK THE LAD

hree Wales players were apparently sent home from the team hotel last week for basically what amounted to staying up past their bedtime.

Rabbi Matondo, Tyler Roberts and Hal R obson-K anu were sent back to their clubs after breaking the curfew put in place at the team hotel.

They didn’t break any of the team’s Covid restrictions, they were simply “caught out of their bedrooms” after the curfew imposed by the Wales coaching team.

I wonder what the late great Frank Worthington would have made of the punishment handed down to the Welsh trio?

Worthington, who sadly passed away earlier this month, was known as one of footb all’s mavericks both on and off the field.

I think it’s fair to say the man known as “Elvis” would not have been a fan of early nights at team hotels.

During an Easter weekend where the Swans play two of Worthington’s former clubs – Birmingham City and Preston North End – it seems particularly fitting to remember one of the game’s great entertainers.

I don’t think I’m revealing any secrets when I say that Worthington played just as hard off the field as he did on it.

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The man who started his career at Huddersfield had a reputation as something of a music loving playboy off the field.

But it was his flamboyant skills on the field which Worthington will be most fondly remembered by football fans.

In 1972, he was on the verge of a big money move to Liverpool when his medical revealed he was suffering from high blood pressure.

The England international scored 286 goals in 905 appearances during a professional career that spanned more than two decades.

Legendary Anfield manager Bill Shankly sent Worthington for a week’s rest and relaxation in Malaga in a bid to fix the problem.

The Halifax-born frontman signed for his first club Huddersfield in 1966 - by the time he left the Terriers in 1972, having helped them into the top flight, he had scored 71 league goals in 141 appearances.

But the fun-loving centre forward had other ideas. Legend has it that Worthington spent the time living it up in Spain!

When he arrived back at Anfield his blood pressure was even higher than when he’d left and the deal was off!

After his retirement he carried on entertaining football fans with some of his stories from his playing days.

I was fortunate enough to attend a function where Worthington was the guest speaker and he recalled playing his first game at Anfield and facing former Swan Tommy Smith.

According to Worthington, he was standing in the famous tunnel when a menacingly silent Smith handed the nervous youngster a piece of paper which apparently turned out to be the menu for Liverpool Royal Infirmary!

More than 200 more games came for Leicester, then on to Bolton, where he s c ored what was probably his most famous goal against Ipswich Town.

If you’ve never seen it, then promise me you’ll Google it. The goal and his subsequent celebration will tell you everything you need to know about Worthington and his style of play.

With his back to goal on the edge of the Ipswich penalty area, Worthington flicked the ball back over his head before spinning past England defender Terry Butcher and slamming a low volley into the corner of the net.

Recalling the goal years later, Worthington said: “I pointed to the Main Stand and said to Butcher, ‘ You could have got a better view of that from over there’. He wasn’t impressed.”

In his first season at Birmingham, Worthington helped the Blues return to the old First Division where they would remain as he scored 33 times in 88 matches before his departure to Leeds in 1982.

Later in his career, Worthington dropped down the divisions to play for a number of clubs, one of which was today’s opponents Preston, where he was signed by then manager John McGrath.

Former Preston skipper Oshor Williams played in the side which Worthington helped gain promotion from the old Fourth Division in 1987 Williams said: “Frank played like a superstar and looked like a film star.

“He brought style, glamour, and an incredible ability to Deepdale, helping John McGrath revive the famous old club. “ Whatever you wore, and however you dressed, you always wished that you could look like Frank Worthington.

“He could wear the most audacious outfits – pink tracksuit bottoms to a high-collar Elvis Presley-style shirt with a bootlace tie – and still look like the sharpest man in the room.

“It wasn’t just his style though – he had an incredible aura about him, like all the truly special players.

“On the pitch he could turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.”

Williams recalled a particularly spectacular strike Worthington scored for Preston against Wolves.

He added: “People often talk about Frank’s spectacular goal for Bolton Wanderers against Ipswich in 1979, but his strike against Wolves was just as special.

“Preston were pressing hard for an equaliser and Bob McNeil swung a free-kick into the Wolves box.

“It was frenetic, the penalty area packed with bodies, and the Wolves defence closed ranks. Suddenly, it fell to Frank in front of the Kop, who cushioned the ball on his thigh.

“Then, with absolute calm and finesse, he executed the most exquisite side-foot volley. For a moment, it felt like Frank had frozen time as his brilliant lob floated towards the target.

“But Frank knew it was a goal as soon as it had left his foot. He began the celebrations before it had even crossed the line, charging up the pitch, waving his arms to the home support.

“Most players would have snatched at such a chance, but Frank Worthington had the scope of imagination, to visualise an opportunity that most players could never conceive.”

Reading about that goal made me think of our own on field maverick Lee Trundle and a goal he scored against Preston in the FA Cup back in 2003.

Magic Daps was presented with what looked like simple chance with the scores locked at 1-1 late in the match.

The ball sat up nicely for him on the six-yard line surrounded

by Preston defenders who all appeared to be rooted to the spot.

It seemed all he had to do was nod the ball past the keeper, but with the defence apparently mesmerised by Trunds, he took the ball on his chest and side footed a volley into the net as calmly as you like to put the Swans into the fifth round.

Afterwards he explained: “I had a bit of time to think about it, so I decided not to just head the ball in; a volley looks better than a header, anyway!”

Frank Worthington would most certainly have approved!

Football is certainly a different game to the one Worthington played, and to a certain extent Trundle too, who was considered to be something of a throwback to the maverick days of the 70s when the likes of Stan Bowles, Tony Currie, Rodney Marsh and Worthington were in their pomp.

You’d have had trouble keeping some of them in their hotels after curfew let alone in their rooms!

You may not have been a fan of early nights during your playing days, but sleep well Frank.

C’mon you Swans!

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AL-HAMADI RELISHING HIS NEW ROLE WITH THE UNDER-23s

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li Al-Hamadi has relished the opportunity to operate in his preferred role as a number nine for Swansea City Under-23s in recent weeks.

A centre forward by trade, Al-Hamadi has also been utilised as a winger and number 10 by the Swans’ age-grade sides since his arrival from Tranmere Rovers in the summer of 2018.

After missing the best part of four months with a pars fracture to his lower back, the Iraqi-born forward marked his second game since returning with an impressive hat-trick in the under-23s’ 4-3 win over Charlton Athletic at the end of February.

The 19-year-old subsequently operated as the focal point of the development side’s attack in each of their next three outings against Millwall, Ipswich and Watford.

Although on target in the 1-1 draw with Ipswich earlier this month, Al-Hamadi was disappointed not to add to his tally after a string of smart saves denied him.

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Nevertheless, he has continued to provide a valuable contribution to Kris O’Leary’s side in other ways; demonstrating good strength to hold up the ball, while bringing his team-mates into play with neat touches.

“By nature, I am a number nine, and it’s nice to be the focal point of the team,” Al-Hamadi said.

“I’ll play wherever the manager tells me to. Over the past few seasons, I’ve shown I can play out wide or just behind the striker.

“But my preferred position is to play as a striker, and I’ve been enjoying it.

“Obviously when you play up front, you’re closer to the goal as well, so you have a lot more opportunities to score.”

LUDVIGSEN FEELS THE BENEFIT OF REGULAR UNDER-23s ACTION

K

ai Ludvigsen believes regular early exposure to under-23s football from a young age will only prove beneficial in his development at Swansea City.

The 16-year-old centre-half has been a consistent feature in the heart of the under-18s defence this season, forming a partnership alongside skipper Scott Butler.

His solid performances culminated in him making his under-23s bow earlier in the campaign, and subsequently appearing for the development side on several occasions.

The Wales youth international, who was part of the under-17s’ training camp during the current window, has already racked up well over 20 appearances for Swansea’s age-grade sides this term.

Ludvigsen knows all about stepping up a level at a younger age. After all, he was just 14 when he made his under-18s debut at the back end of the 2018-19 season.

And the first-year scholar, who hails from Barry, has been pleased by the way he has adapted to the transition this time around.

“I’m quite happy with where I am at the moment,” he said.

“Playing up for the under-23s as a 16-year-old is a big ask, but I feel like I’m coping well when I do play.

“I also think it’s better to adapt at a young age.

“I think the progression for everyone this season has been brilliant.

“You’re always being pushed week in week out and that’s making us better players.”

A s with all academy players, Ludvigsen’s ultimate ambition is to eventually break into the first-team set-up.

But he is not getting carried away just yet, and is well aware that he must gradually build towards achieving that goal.

At the same time, though, he has no intention of allowing his current progress to stall.

“The biggest step is not under-18s to under-23s football; it’s under-23s to first-team football,” he added.

“Some players fall into the trap where they play in the under-23s for too long and never progress.

“Saying I want to get in the first-team now would be a bit silly.

“But hopefully in the next few years, I can push and get some experience at that level – even if that’s just training with them.”

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DATE: SUNDAY, MARCH 28 VENUE: LLANDARCY ACAMDEMY OF SPORT

SWANS LADIES 6 CYNCOED LADIES 0 MATCH REPORT S

Swans Ladies: Claire Skinner, Ellie Lake (Melissa Sartain 82), Alicia Powe (captain), Jess Williams, Shaunna Jenkins, Tija Richardson, Chloe Chivers, Laura Davies (Nieve Jenkins 80), Kelly Adams, Katy Hosford, Stacey John-Davis (Emma Beynon 76).

But in the dying moments of the first half, the Swans made their dominance tell as Davies met Richardson’s cross to head home the opening goal.

wansea City Ladies maintained their p e r f e c t r e c o r d a ft e r t h e y s w e p t a s i d e Cyncoed at Llandarcy.

A frustrating first half for the Swans ended on a high with Laura Davies opening the scoring a minute before the break..

And they backed that goal up with an emphatic second-half showing, ensuring the reigning Welsh Premier Women’s League champions kept their 100 per cent record intact.

Further goals came courtesy of Chloe Chivers, Emma Beynon, a brace from Tija Richardson and an own goal as the Swans took their tally to 30 scored in just seven matches.

Richardson was denied a goal by the crossbar early in the second half; there were multiple Swansea appeals that the ball bounced over the line but nothing was given.

John-Davis nearly doubled the Swans’ lead after she was picked out by Chivers’ delivery into the penalty area, but she was denied by a diving save from the keeper.

However, Richardson did increase the home side’s advant age after she leaped above everybody in the penalty area to head home Chivers’ corner.

The midfielder then grabbed her second of the afternoon when she powerfully headed in from Hosford’s dangerous cross.

In a steady start, Shaunna Jenkins had the first shot of the match, but didn’t trouble Cyncoed keeper Maisie Jones as she dragged her effort wide of the post.

There was certainly no doubt where the three points were ending up after Caitlin Meadows turned the ball into her own net with Beynon applying the pressure to force the mistake in the box.

Chivers created a chance for John-Davis after she won a header on the edge of the box, but the striker was only able to divert her effort just wide of the far post.

As the game drew to a close, Chivers made it five as she calmly slotted home after Jenkins’ initial effort fell kindly into her path.

Katy Hosford then worked a half-chance on the left flank after she cut onto her right foot. However, her strike was comfortably gathered by Jones.

Substitute Beynon had the last say though, as she drilled the ball into the far corner to round off a comprehensive victory.

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BACK A JACK

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Available online at www.store.swanseacity.com 40

BACK A JACK WINNER - DREW GENTRY

S

wansea City’s latest Back a Jack award – backed by Peter Lynn & Partners - received another huge reaction from supporters, and we are delighted to announce Drew Gentry as our latest winner.

Drew is a member of the Stateside Jacks, and was nominated for stepping in to help other international supporter groups to establish professional logos and images.

Not all supporter groups have the financial means to create professional imagery, and Drew has volunteered his services free of charge to help fellow Jacks.

His work pleased fellow supporters group Port Talbot and Exiled Jacks, who stated: “Drew has been working tirelessly supporting Jacks from all over the world setting up logos to spread the good name of Swansea City.

“We have never met Drew but when we needed help he was only too willing to help without question or reward.”

Drew has been supporting the Swans for over three years and was first introduc ed to the Jack Army via the head of the Stateside Jack group, Marc Padro.

D rew get s suppor t and share s his p assion t h r o u g h t h e g l o b a l S w a n s g r o u p. H e s a i d : “ The Global Jacks are the most welcoming, kindest supporter base of any that I have ever encountered. I’m not sure I’d know where I’d be without them all!”

Drew has been sent a full squad signed shirt to display with pride! Well done Drew. We’re proud that you are a Jack.

Nominations are now open for the month of April. Supporters are reminded that nominations are not carried forward from previous months.

All entries must be submitted by the 20th of every month to support@swanseacity.com

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A CENTURY OF LEAGUE FOOTBALL Historian Gwyn Rees looks at the club’s campaigns throughout its 100-year involvement in the Football League divisions and Premier League.

2006-2007 FOOTBALL LEAGUE ONE (FINISHED 7TH)

Long-term injuries to key personnel like Garry Monk, Owain Tudur Jones and Darren Way didn’t help matters, while free scoring Leon Knight fell foul of the manager, being placed on the transfer list over internal disciplinary matters.

It was the FA Cup that caught the supporters’ imagination; with a first-round tie at fellow Welsh side Newport County a much-anticipated game.

The Swans roared into a 3-0 lead before half-time, but it was matters on the side line that made the headlines; County manager Peter Beadle was sent to the stands for the use of foul and abusive language, while a coin thrown from the home section struck a linesman causing a nasty cut to his head that required attention.

A 3-1 win and a subsequent victory over Darlington by the same scoreline saw Swansea handed an away tie against Premier League Sheffield United in the third round.

Four thousand Jacks made the long trip to cheer their side on and, led by the immense physical presence of Adebayo Akinfenwa, the team stunned their hosts by winning 3-0 thanks to a brace from Thomas Butler and a Leon Britton penalty. Yet another away tie sent the team to Ipswich Town in the fourth round, and it took a late controversial penalty to halt Swansea’s progress.

But the bread and butter of league football continued to frustrate supporters, and manager Kenny Jackett decided to resign, leaving Kevin Nugent as caretaker manager.

There were surprise departures from the Liberty Stadium in the summer of 2006 as both Roberto Martinez and Adrian Forbes were given free transfers, while Sam Ricketts chose to join Hull City.

The one incoming transfer saw Darren Pratley arrive from Fulham, though the disappointment of the playoff final defeat saw the side struggle for any sort of consistency in the early part of the season.

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The board wasted no time in appointing a new full-time manager, with the appointment causing a surprise as former player Martinez returned to the club just eight months after leaving.

The handful of games the new man had in charge showed how the team would play under him, on the deck and with movement all over the pitch, with all players comfortable on the ball.

The play-offs proved just out of reach, but with the new manager in charge there was genuine hope for the future.

2007-2008 FOOTBALL LEAGUE ONE 2008-2009 CHAMPIONSHIP (FINISHED 1ST)

After the optimism of Martinez’s few months at the helm, there was disappointment and sadness when Lee Trundle left the club for Championship side Bristol City.

The move stunned supporters as one of the club’s iconic players departed, but the £1million transfer fee did soften the blow and allowed the club to bring in Jason Scotland from Motherwell.

Spaniards Angel Rangel, Guillem Bauza and Andrea Orlandi also arrived, as did the Dutch duo of Dorus De Vries and Ferrie Bodde.

The opening game at Oldham Athletic saw a 1-2 defeat, but the possession football on show was a foretaste of what the fans could expect under Martinez. As the season progressed it was evident that this squad was something special; going top in November the side would remain there throughout the remainder of the season.

At one stage they were 18 games unbeaten and held a massive 14-point lead at the top of the table.

Promotion was clinched away at Gillingham in early April; while the final home game of the season saw the team crush Leyton Orient 4-1 to send the home fans into party mood.

The last game of this historic campaign was away at Brighton, and a 1-0 win capped the end of a perfect season for Martinez and the squad with the title secured.

The only disappointment for the club was the Football League’s inability to allow the club a trophy to parade in front of their supporters while an investigation of a 15-point deduction to Leeds United at the start of the campaign was being considered.

As it transpired, the Swans would finish more than 15 points clear of their Yorkshire rivals, and Swansea were back in the second tier after a long 24-year absence.

CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE...

(FINISHED 8TH)

After a pre-season spent in Spain, two more Spaniards joined the Swansea revolution as Gorka Pintado and Jordi Gomez joined on season-long loans from Espanyol.

The opening game of the season was a testimonial for long serving Kris O’Leary, a player who had been with the club through some of its darkest times, and was now deservedly reaping the benefits of the good times.

The opening league fixtures were steady rather than spectacular, but it was all eyes on the Carling Cup for the supporters when - after wins over Brentford and Hull City - the next round tie paired Swansea with Welsh rivals Cardiff City.

In an electric atmosphere under the Liberty lights, and with a crowd of over 17,000 in attendance, a second-half free-kick from Gomez was enough to win the game for the Swans and give them bragging rights in the first south Wales derby of the season.

Watford put paid to further progress in the next round but, unlike past seasons, the cups never hindered league form. By the turn of the New Year the Swans sat just outside the play-off places.

In the FA Cup, a win over Histon set up a visit to holders Portsmouth, with Nathan Dyer and Scotland dumping Pompey out.

The reward for that upset was a tie live on national TV at home to Premier League Fulham.

The original tie ended in a 1-1 draw, with Swansea widely lauded for their style of play, and it took a late brace of Fulham goals in the replay to end the run of Martinez’s entertaining side.

The league campaign finished with the side a creditable eighth place in the division, while the club had the honour of having both Gomez and Scotland in the Championship team of the season.

43

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44

2009-2010 CHAMPIONSHIP (FINISHED 7TH)

The rise of Swansea City - in addition to the attractive style of football - attracted many admirers, and during the summer break there was continuous speculation concerning manager Martinez in the media.

Finally, after bitter and protracted negotiations between the board and the manager’s former club Wigan Athletic, Martinez left the Swans to take over at the Premier League side.

This was a bitter pill for all Swans supporters to swallow, especially when both Gomez and Scotland followed Martinez’s path to the JJB Stadium.

The board moved quickly to find a replacement, and former Juventus star and Portugal International Paulo Sousa moved to SA1.

Early results were mixed, and included a bizarre home defeat in the Carling Cup to Scunthorpe United.

Three Swans players were sent off and a fourth Besian Idriaj - who had left the pitch injured, was forced by the referee to return to the action for the

final few minutes to finish the game. It summed up the strange start to the season.

Slowly but surely the side responded to the new manager’s tactics, and the turn of the year saw the side in the play-off places.

However, Sousa’s cautious approach meant that goals were at a premium, and fans’ favourite Lee Trundle returned to the club on loan looking to alleviate that issue.

The run-in saw crucial points dropped and, in the final league game of the season at home to Doncaster Rovers, the team were unable to find a way past a stubborn away defence when a further goal would have secured a play-off spot.

Just 40 goals were scored during the league season, and there were 18 games where the side failed to find the net. It told the story of a season where pragmatism was a byword.

46

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SEASON 2020-21 FIXTURE

52

Match Statistics

Key

Goal =

Sub = 2 (number denotes player replaced)

Captain =

DATE

TEAM

Newport County (CC R2) A L 2-0

Sat, Sep 5, 3pm

Woodman

Routledge 3

Naughton

Rodon

Fulton

Bidwell 1

Grimes

Preston North End A W 0-1

Sat, Sep 12, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Birmingham City H D 0-0

Sat, Sep 19, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Waycombe Wanderers A W 0-2

Sat, Sep 26, 12.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Millwall H W 2-1

Sat, Oct 3, 3pm

Benda

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Huddersfield Town H L 1-2

Sat, Oct 17, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton 3

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Coventry City A D 1-1

Tue, Oct 20, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bristol City A D 1-1

Sat, Oct 24, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Stoke City H W 2-0

Tue, Oct 27, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett 3

Guehi

Manning 1

Grimes

Blackburn Rovers H W 2-0

Sat, Oct 31, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Brentford A D 1-1

Tue, Nov 3, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Norwich City A L 1-0

Sat, Nov 7, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Rotherham United H W 1-0

Sat, Nov 21, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Sheffield Wednesday H D 1-1

Wed, Nov 25, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Naughton 2

Bidwell 4

Grimes

Nottingham Forest A W 0-1

Sun, Nov 29, 12pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes Smith 5

1

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Bennett

Naughton

Bidwell

Grimes

Middlesbrough A L 2-1

Wed, Dec 2, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango 2

Bennett

Guehi

Manning

Luton Town H W 2-0

Sat, Dec 5, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi 3

Bidwell

Grimes

A.F.C. Bournemouth H D 0-0

Tue, Dec 8, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Latibeaudiere

Cabango

Naughton

Bidwell

Grimes

Cardiff City A W 0-2

Sat, Dec 12, 12.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Derby County A L 2-0

Wed, Dec 16, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 2

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell 3

Grimes

Barnsley H W 2-0

Sat, Dec 19, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Queens Park Rangers A W 0-2

Sat, Dec 26, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Reading H D 0-0

Wed, Dec 30, 8pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Watford H W 2-1

Sat, Jan 2, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Guehi

Cabango

Bidwell

Manning 1

Grimes

Stevenage A (FA R3) W 0-2

Sat, Jan 9, 3pm

Woodman

Garrick 4

Naughton

Cabango

Evans

Barnsley A W 0-2

Sat, Jan 16, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Nottingham Forest H (FA R4) W 5-1

Sat, Jan 23, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts 5

Latibeaudiere

Brentford H D 1-1

Weds, Jan 27, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Rotherham United A W 1-3

Sat, Jan 30, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

1

3

Manning

Byers

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bennett

Guehi 4

Manning

Hourihane 3

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Norwich City H W 2-0

Fri, Feb 5, 8.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Manchester City H (FA R5) L 1-3

Wed, Feb 10, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts 3

Latibeaudiere

Cabango

Guehi

Manning 4

Grimes

Nottingham Forest H W 1-0

Wed, Feb 17, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 1

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Huddersfield Town A L 4-1

Sat, Feb 20, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 3

Bennett 1

Guehi

Bidwell 5

Grimes

Coventry City H W 1-0

Wed, Feb 24, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton 3

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bristol City H 1

Sat, Feb 27, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Latibeaudiere 3

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Stoke City A W 1-2

Wed, Mar 3, 8.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi

Manning

Middlesbrough H W 2-1

Sat, Mar 6, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi

Manning

Blackburn Rovers A D 1-1

Tue, March 9, 6pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi 1

Bidwell

Grimes

Luton Town A W 0-1

Sat, Mar 13, 12.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Latibeadiere

Manning

Grimes

A.F.C. Bournemouth A L 3-0

Tues, Mar 16, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Latibeadiere 1

Manning

Grimes

Cardiff City H L 0-1

Sat, Mar 20, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 2

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell 3

Grimes

Birmingham City A

Fri, Apr 2, 8pm

Preston North End H

Mon, Apr 5, 3pm

Millwall A

Sat, Apr 10, 12.30pm

Sheffield Wednesday A

Tues, Apr 13, 6pm

Wycombe Wanderers H

Sat, Apr 17, 3pm

Queens Park Rangers H

Tues, Apr 20, 7pm

Reading A

Sat, Apr 24, 3pm

Derby County H

Sat, May 1, 3pm

Watford A

Sat, May 8, 3pm

Grimes 2

Grimes

Booked =

Sent off =

Carabao Cup = CC

FA Cup = FA

Correct as of March 31, 2021

SUBSTITUTES Smith 2

Gibbs-White

Smith

Gibbs-White

Smith

Gibbs-White

Lowe 1

Smith

Gibbs-White 1

Lowe

Smith

Gibbs-White 2

Smith Smith

1

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Rushesha, Evans, Williams, Dhanda 2, Peterson 3, Asoro 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Routledge 2, Peterson, Cullen

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton, Dhanda, Routledge, Peterson, Cullen 1

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Routledge, Peterson, Cullen 2

Lowe 1

Ayew

Webb, Naughton, Fulton 2, Routledge, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Gyokeres 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Evans, Fulton, Dhanda, Palmer 1, Garrick 3, Cullen 2

Gyokeres 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Manning, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen 2

Smith

Fulton

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Manning, Dhanda, Routledge, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Fulton

Dhanda 2

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Cabango 3, Bidwell 1, Smith, Palmer 2

Fulton

Dhanda

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Bennett, Manning, Grimes, Routledge, Palmer 2, Gyokeres 1

Dhanda 2

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Grimes 1, Routledge, Palmer 2, Gyokeres 3

Palmer 3

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Grimes 1, Dhanda 3, Routledge, Gyokeres 2

Fulton

Dhanda 2

Lowe 3

Cullen 1

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Rushesha, Williams, Smith 3, Cooper, Routledge 1, Palmer 2

Smith

Dhanda

Lowe 3

Cullen 1

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning 4, Rushesha, Fulton, O.Cooper, Routledge 3, Palmer 2, Ayew 1

Smith

Fulton

Lowe 1

Ayew

Benda, Cabango, Manning, Dhanda, Routledge 1, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres

Palmer 4

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Bidwell, Grimes 1 , Dhanda 4

Dhanda 2

Cullen 2

Ayew

Fulton 1 Fulton

Fulton

2

1

Smith Smith

Dhanda 2

Lowe 1

Smith

Fulton

Lowe

Smith 5

Fulton 1

Fulton

Dhanda

Fulton

Dhanda

Fulton Fulton Fulton 1

Routledge

Fulton

Smith

Dhanda

Grimes

Fulton

2

1

4

Ayew

, Cullen, Gyokeres

, Routledge 2, Garrick 5, Cullen, Gyokeres 3

Benda, Latibeaudiere 3, Manning, Fulton, Routledge, Palmer 2, Garrick, Lowe 1, Gyokeres 4 Benda, Evans, Manning, Fulton, Routledge, Palmer 2, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning, Routledge 1, Palmer, Dhanda, Cullen, Gyokeres

Lowe 4

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning 3, Garrick 4, Palmer 3, Dhanda 1, Cullen 5, Gyokeres

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith, Routledge, Palmer, O.Cooper, Cullen, Gyokeres

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith 1, Routledge, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres

Smith 2

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere 1, Manning, Routledge, Palmer 2, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Gyokeres 3

Smith

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Evans, Routledge, Palmer, Dhanda, Gibbs-White 1, O.Cooper, Garrick, Gyokeres

Dhanda

Gyokeres

Webb, Guehi, Bidwell 3, Grimes, Smith 1, Williams, O.Cooper 4, Cullen 2, Lowe

1

2

1

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Routledge, Byers, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Cullen

Routledge 1

Cullen

Webb, Cabango, Naughton, Bidwell 4, Fulton 2, Cooper 3

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere, Manning 1, Williams, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Morris

Dhanda 1

Hourihane

Lowe 2

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Evans, Manning, Williams, Fulton 1

Fulton

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning, Freeman, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Morris 1, Whittaker

Fulton

Dhanda

5

Lowe 1

Morris 2

Webb, Naughton, Freeman 3, Bennett, Bidwell 4, Hourihane 5, Arriola 1, Whittaker 2

Fulton

Hourihane 3

Lowe 2

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith 3, Dhanda, Arriola 2, Morris 1, Whittaker

Fulton 4

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango 1, Latibeaudiere, Manning 5, Smith, Dhanda 4, Arriola, Morris 2, Whittaker 3

Dhanda 1

Hourihane 2

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere 3, Manning, Freeman, Smith 1, Fulton 2, Arriola, O.Cooper, Whittaker

Dhanda 1

Hourihane 2

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Naughton, B.Cooper, Manning, Smith, Fulton 1, Arriola 2, O.Cooper, Whittaker 3

Fulton

Smith

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Bidwell, Freeman, Hourihane 1, Dhanda, Arriola, O.Cooper, Whittaker

Fulton

Smith 1

Hourihane

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Bidwell 2, Bennett, Dhanda, Arriola, O.Cooper, Arriola, Lowe 1, Whittaker

Fulton 2

Hourihane 3

Smith

Hourihane

Smith 2 Fulton 4

2

, Garrick 5, Ayew, Lowe 1

, O.Cooper, Garrick, Morris 2

Lowe 4

Ayew

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere 1, Manning, Smith 3, Dhanda 2, O.Cooper, Routledge 4, Whittaker

Dhanda 1

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Bidwell, Freeman, Fulton 2, O.Cooper, Routledge, Lowe 1, Whittaker

Hourihane 3

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Bidwell, Freeman, Fulton, Dhanda 2, O.Cooper, Routledge 3, Whittaker 1

Hourihane 1

Ayew

Whittaker

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning 3, Smith 1, Dhanda 4, Routledge, Lowe 2

2

53

CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE 20-21 POS TEAM

P

*Sheffield Wednesday deducted 6 points.

W D L

F

A

GD PTS

1

Norwich City

38

25

8

5

56

27

29

83

2

Watford

38

22

9

7

55

26

29

75

3

Swansea City

37

20

9

8

45

29

16

69

4

Brentford

37

19

11

7

65

39

26

68

5

Barnsley

38

19

7

12

49

42

7

64

6

Reading

38

18

8

12

52

41

11

62

7

Bournemouth

37

16

11

10

55

37

18

59

8

Cardiff City

38

16

10

12

55

37

18

58

9

Middlesbrough

38

16

8

14

46

39

7

56

10

Millwall

38

12

16

10

38

36

2

52

11

Stoke City

38

13

13

12

42

42

0

52

12

Queens Park Rangers

37

13

11

13

39

43

-4

50

13

Luton Town

37

14

8

15

31

41

-10

50

14

Bristol City

38

15

4

19

39

50

-11

49

15

Blackburn Rovers

38

12

10

16

50

42

8

46

16

Preston North End

38

13

5

20

39

49

-10

44

17

Nottingham Forest

38

10

12

16

30

38

-8

42

18

Huddersfield Town

37

11

9

17

41

52

-11

42

19

Derby County

38

10

10

18

27

42

-15

40

20

Coventry City

37

9

12

16

32

48

-16

39

21

Birmingham City

38

9

11

18

28

50

-22

38

22

Rotherham United

34

10

5

19

38

47

-9

35

23

Sheffield Wednesday*

37

10

8

19

28

47

-19

32

24

Wycombe Wanderers

38

6

9

23

25

61

-36

27

UPCOMING FIXTURES MILLWALL (A)

Saturday, Apr 10, 12.30pm

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY (A)

Tuesday, Apr 13, 6pm

WYMCOMBE WANDERERS (H) Saturday, Apr 17, 3pm

QUEENS PARK RANGERS (H)

Tuesday, Apr 20, 7pm

READING (A)

Saturday, Apr 24, 3pm

Correct as of March 31, 2021

NEXT UP AT HOME - WYCOMBE WANDERERS

W

ycombe are embarking on their first-ever Championship c ampaign after Gareth Ainsworth led them to League One play-off glory with victory over Oxford at Wembley in July.

Formed in 1887, Wycombe have spent the vast majority of their history outside of the football league, spending 64-consecutive years in the Isthmian League before accepting invitation to the Conference – after rejecting numerous previous invites – in 1987.

Martin O’Neill guided them to the Football League in 1993, and secured immediate promotion to the third tier a year later, while they were FA Cup semi-finalists in 2001 and League Cup semifinalists in 2007.

54

7 SWANS

6 WYCOMBE

2 DRAWS 15 PAST MEETINGS

55

SQUAD LIST V

HEAD COACH: STEVE COOPER Freddie Woodman Ryan Bennett Ryan Manning Marc Guéhi Jay Fulton Korey Smith Matt Grimes Jamal Lowe André Ayew Jordan Morris Steven Benda Conor Hourihane Wayne Routledge Morgan Whittaker Ben Hamer Paul Arriola Liam Cullen Yan Dhanda Joel Latibeaudiere Connor Roberts Jake Bidwell Kyle Naughton Tivonge Rushesha Ollie Cooper Kieron Freeman Brandon Cooper Daniel Williams Lewis Webb Ben Cabango

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 30 31 34 36 37 42 44

INTERIM MANAGER: FRANKIE McAVOY 1 2 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 31 37 39 42 44

Declan Rudd Sepp van den Berg Patrick Bauer Liam Lindsay Tom Bayliss Alan Browne Louis Moult Daniel Johnson Paul Gallagher Jordan Storey Joe Rafferty Andrew Hughes Ben Whiteman Ryan Ledson Emil Riis Jayson Molumby Daniel Iversen Paul Huntington Sean Maguire Connor Ripley Ched Evans Jacob Holland-Wilkinson Mathew Hudson Tom Barkhuizen Scott Sinclair Greg Cunningham Billy Bodin Anthony Gordon Brad Potts

MATCH OFFICIALS REFEREE: PETER BANKES ASSISTANT REFEREES: JAMES MAINWARING AND NICK GREENHALGH FOURTH OFFICIAL: SAM ALLISON