Swansea City vs Sheffield Wednesday - Issue 24

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

ISSUE 24

Free Digital Copy Swansea City v Sheffield Wednesday Sunday, July 5 - Kick-off 12pm

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Spanish company Joma, founded in 1965, SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY strengthens its position in sport worldwide Joma’s sponsorship strategy continues to increase the brand’s presence in elite sport across the globe. Thanks to the incorporation of new teams and athletes, as well as the development of new exclusive products for major events, Joma is positioned among the top three most outstanding sports brands worldwide, and as the number one Spanish brand.

For Joma, the image of an athlete has always been the best representation, so for the next Olympic Games in Tokyo, the brand will dress 8 Committees, including the Spanish Olympic Committee. At the most important sporting event in the world, Joma will also be represented by a multitude of federations across various disciplines: the Spanish Athletics, Handball and Rugby Federations, among many others internationally.

We must of course mention football where, together with Nike, Joma has the largest number of sponsorships in the Spanish League, and in Italy with UC Sampdoria Torino FC and Atalanta BC, surpassing the presence of its main competitors. The brand also has sponsorship deals in Belgium, with RSC Anderlecht and TSG Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga, which, together with teams from Romania, Ukraine and Honduras, totals more than 300 professional teams in the world of football.

In futsal, Joma sponsors the champions of the Italian, Brazilian and Spanish leagues, and has recently become the official ball supplier for the LNFS. This makes us the market leaders in Spain and the third brand globally, all thanks to the effort and support of thousands of professional and amateur athletes, who trust our brand more and more every day.

ALL FOR SPORT

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24 Match Reports

32 Meet the visitors

40 Freddie Woodman

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Jack the Lad

Memory Lane

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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.

SWANSEACITY.COM

SWANSEACITYFC

SWANSOFFICIAL

SWANSTV

Board Of Directors Chairman: Trevor Birch Directors: Romie Chaudhari, Bobby Hernreich, Huw Jenkins, Stephen Kaplan, Jason Levien, Stuart McDonald, Martin Morgan Honorary Club President: Alan Curtis; Associate Directors: David Morgan, Cath Dyer Behind the Team Head Coach: Steve Cooper Assistant First Team Coach: Mike Marsh Goalkeeping Coach: Martyn Margetson Head of Medicine: Dr Jez McCluskey Head of Performance Analysis: Steve Rands Head of Recruitment: Andy Scott Academy Manager: Nigel Rees Staff: David Tivey, Ritson Lloyd, Ailsa Jones, Matthew Murray, Adele Callaghan, Daniel Morris, Lee Watkins, Chris Watkins, Tom Jenkinson, Tom Goodall, Daniel Nisbett, Suzan Eames, Michael Eames, Shaun Baggridge, Huw Lake Club Staff Senior Management Group: Andrew Davies (Head of Operations, Facilities & Development); Gareth Davies (Chief Financial Officer); Rebecca Edwards-Symmons (Head of Commercial); Jonathan Wilsher (Head of Media & Communications) 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 Partnership Sales Manager: Cory Richards Media Manager: Chris Barney Marketing Manager: Julie Parienti Ticket Office Manager: Luke Hughes Operations & Events Manager: Matthew Daniel Facilities Manager: Gordon David Grounds Manager: Anthony Harry Health & Safety Manager: Richard Deakin Disability Access Officer: Mark Phillips Community Trust Manager: Helen Elton Club Chaplain: Kevin Johns MBE Club Ambassador: Lee Trundle Programme Production Contributors: Alex Bennett, Julie Kissick, Sioned Dafydd, Chris Barney, Andrew Gwilym, Jonathan Davies, Sophie Davis, Adam Evans, Adil Guney Yurtlu, Ege Agar, Corey Hughes, Gwyn Rees Photography: Athena Picture Agency, PA, REX, Natalie Davis, Ashley Crowden Designers: Callum Rothwell, Jordan Morcom Print: DWJ Group Ltd.

NEW BEGINNINGS: FOCUSSING ON OUR FANS AND OUR COMMUNITY. PUTTING THE CLUB AT THE HEART OF EVERY DECISION WE MAKE.

Swansea City AFC Liberty Stadium, Landore, Swansea, SA1 2FA Telephone: 01792 616 600 Ticket Office: 01792 616 400 Website: www.swanseacity.com Email: info@swanseacity.com

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY A CHANNEL DEDICATED TO FOOTBALL

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STEVE COOPER G

ood afternoon. I hope you are all well and looking forward to watching today’s Championship clash with Sheffield Wednesday.

We look no further than the most important game, which is always the next one in front of you.

Today we take on Sheffield Wednesday, who are also among the group chasing the playoff spots.

T his afternoon is another game where we play at the Liberty without our loyal fans, but one where we are determined to get back on track after some mixed results following the resumption of football.

We shared a four-goal thriller at Hillsborough in November, with Ben Wilmot’s late, late goal earning us a point despite Wednesday scoring t w i c e i n t h e l a st t e n m i n u t e s aft e r A n d re Ayew’s opener.

We hit the ground running in our first game back, beating Middlesbrough 3-0 at The Riverside in a game which we dominated.

They are managed, of course, by Garry Monk, who returns to the Liberty where he served the club with distinction as a player, captain and manager. I’m sure it will also be surreal for him coming to the Liberty without seeing the fans, as he would have experienced some great atmospheres during his time here.

Then came the disappointing performance and result against Luton here in SA1. We let down ourselves, each other and the supporters who are in lockdown and want to see their team play, work hard and try and play good football.

I had to tell the players that on Sunday, that it was well below the level we expect in every aspect.

We’ ve played behind closed doors on three occasions already, and it is a shame we can’t play in front of you.

A few days after that we headed to Millwall where we picked up a point in a 1-1 draw.

But the most important thing will always be the safety of our fans, and we’ve taken huge strength from seeing your suppor t on the club’s social media channels and website via our #JacksAtHome campaign where we see Jacks all over the world posting pictures of them following our matches.

I had mixed feelings after that game. We have to be better in terms of game management, and we can be better in how we use the ball late in games, and we will always strive to get better.

But we improved in terms of performance from the Luton game, and we showed character to come back to level.

I’m sure you’ll be watching at home via SwansTV and Sky Sports today, so we will be doing all we can to give you the performance and result you all deserve.

The lads are committed and there will be many twists and turns before this is over.

Enjoy the game,

We will keep going, we really want to do well.

We have to keep believing and keep going.

But we are not giving up. There are six games left and a lot to play for.

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MATT GRIMES G ood morning to everyone joining us around the world for today’s Championship fixture against Sheffield Wednesday at the Liberty Stadium.

We know there is ground to make up in our quest for the play-off places, but we know we can do it. If a couple of results go our way and we do our part, then things can change quickly in our favour.

This year, there are so many teams going for that sixth spot, and it is such a busy period, so we must make sure we are sharp and fresh whenever we step onto the field.

I thought we bounced back well on Tuesday night following last weekend’s defeat by Luton Town at Millwall.

To perform the way we did after playing so well against Middlesbrough the previous week was not good at all. We were way off it and nowhere near good enough. To give away a sloppy goal like that was really disappointing, but the whole day was poor from start to finish.

But there is no time to dwell in this division with the games coming thick and fast. We needed to make amends because it was a poor performance and I thought we reacted well against Millwall.

As ever, we will be going into today’s game full of confidence knowing that if we perform to the best of our capabilities, we can beat any team in this division.

It is never easy going to a place like The Den. Millwall set up really well and it was a tough game.

But we showed good character to come into it and avoid back-to-back losses, which could have put us in a bad position. In the end, a point was probably a good result.

We definitely want to give something back to the fans. We have such a good following who will be keeping tabs on things and watching all the games, so we will certainly be trying our best.

Wherever you are watching from, I hope you enjoy the game,

There is so much to play for as we head into our final six games of the season. We had a long break before coming into these games, so we are determined to give it a real good go.

We have to focus on each individual challenge because every game is difficult and a different sort of test. We must get the training work in when we can, maximise the rest time we have and try to be as fresh as we can for every game.

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SWANSEA CITY AFC COMMUNITY TRUST FOCUS

ON THEIR IMPACT IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

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he Premier League Kicks initiative uses the reach and appeal of the Premier League to regularly engage children and young people - of all backgrounds and abilities - in football, sport and personal development, providing a trusted, positive influence in high-need areas across England and Wales.

community safety, through their partnership with the police crime commissioner, South Wales Police, Dyfed Powys Police, youth services, local councils and other sports providers.

With free sessions being delivered across south west Wales, the Swans Community Trust have worked closely with numerous young children who have experienced the physical and social benefits that sport can have on one’s wellbeing.

The project runs on a weekly basis, giving young people between the ages of eight and 18 across south west Wales the opportunities to play, coach and officiate in football and a range of sports.

Brandon White, a regular participant at the Friday Night Kicks sessions in Morriston Leisure Centre, exemplifies the benefits.

Although the immediate emphasis of the programme is football, Swansea City Community Trust coaches work in partnership to support the younger generation with societal challenges and improve

“I remember the first session Brandon attended,” says Jamie Thomas, a PL Kicks coordinator at the Community Trust.

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“He walked in with his Swansea City kit as a shy young person who looked out of his comfort zone.

“These sessions really have done Brandon the power of good.”

“He expressed his love and passion for Swansea City. I could see straight away that he had a great personality.”

To congratulate Brandon on his development through the PL Kicks programme, he was invited to the Liberty Stadium for a tour with none other than Swans legend and club ambassador Lee Trundle, as well as first-team winger Jordon Garrick.

Gareth Evans, Brandon’s foster dad, believes the Community Trust’s Kicks sessions have been a crucial factor in Brandon’s development.

Without the funding from the Premier League, these free footballing sessions across south west Wales simply would not happen and an opportunity for young people to reap the benefits from physical activity would be lost.

“We’ve had Brandon since he was two years old.

It has been a difficult time with Brandon, he has autism, ADHD and Tourette’s,” says Gareth.

“He loves football. Football is his life and he loves the Swans. So, everything we do on a Friday has to revolve around his Friday night Kicks!

Thanks to the Kicks programme, the Swans Community Trust are having an important impact on the lives of hundreds of young people.

“These sessions have benefitted Brandon greatly. He is now interacting with children of his own age, there are now no violent outbursts as there were before.

If you would like more information about the Trust’s Kicks sessions, such as dates and venues, please contact youth engagement lead Craig Richards via email (craig@scfccommunitytrust.co.uk).

Dental Care Provider to

The Swans 01792 642 733

www.eastsidedental.co.uk

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

JON RYAN | THE SUPER BOWL WINNER

CHEERING ON THE SWANS

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uper Bowl winner Jon Ryan is a man who knows a thing or two about post-season football, having appeared in the NFL play-offs on six occasions during a successful decade with the Seattle Seahawks.

“What I see in a lot of teams that make the NFL play-offs is that they feel they have to do something they’re not accustomed to doing,” Ryan explains.

“They want to be the star or do something bigger and don’t play within themselves.

The punter, who now plays in the Canadian Football League with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, is hopeful his beloved Swansea City can follow suit and secure a top-six finish come the conclusion of the regular Championship season on July 22.

“It’s so important to continue to do what you have been during the regular season and carry that through into the play-offs.

“If you start making stuff up or make things too difficult, players usually don’t play well. You just have to approach every game the same and play within yourself.

Steve Cooper’s side are currently four points off the play-off places with six matches remaining, and it is set to be a dramatic climax to the elongated campaign.

“Those are the traits of the teams that do it over and over again.”

But what are the key traits and characteristics needed for a team heading into the play-offs – in any sport?

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY The Swans’ play-off glory of 2011 provides Ryan with one of his favourite memories of following the club from across the Atlantic over the past 10 years.

“It was one of the moments when I realised why I supported the club.

“Even though nobody thought they would win, they played so hard and should have won.

But there is one particular game of more recent times that stands out in his mind.

“I was so proud to be part of the Jack Army that day.”

“I have so many great memories of following the Swans,” he said.

That five-goal thriller at the Liberty was one of the many times that California resident Ryan has awoken in the early hours to cheer along the club on SwansTV Live.

“The obvious ones are Scott Sinclair’s hat-trick at Wembley in the 2011 play-off final: that’s obviously a great one for everyone and, two years later, winning the League Cup.

It was during his time in the NFL that he developed a burning passion for football on this side of the Atlantic, and eventually the Swans.

“But one of my favourite memories was when the Swans played Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final last season.

Introduced to the game by his colleagues in Seattle, there was one particular team whose attractive style of football caught his eye.

“Leading up to that match, unless you were part of the Swans or the Jack Army, nobody was giving us a chance to win.

“During the 1980s and 1990s, there wasn’t a lot of football going on, so I didn’t really grow up playing or watching it,” he reflects.

“I remember watching the game from home and I couldn’t even sit on the couch; I was just pacing up and down.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY “It wasn’t until I moved into the NFL that I met some team-mates who were big Premier League fans.

They introduced me to it, and I fell in love with the game.

“I remember seeing this one team that kept popping up. I loved the way they played and at the time, they weren’t even in the Premier League, they were in the Championship.

“It felt like they were gritty, always underdogs proving people wrong and the fans were rowdy, which I like. It turns out that team was Swansea City.

That was in around 2010 and I have been following them ever since.

eventual champions Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the West play-off final.

Ryan certainly brings plenty of experience to their ranks after a successful 12-year career in the NFL – 10 of which were spent with the Seahawks.

“I started learning about the history of the club and realised this team that were gritty and that I loved were, only a few years prior to that, playing in League Two and worked their way up to the Championship. Then obviously in 2011, they were promoted.”

Part of a line-up featuring the likes of Russell Wilson, Marshawn Lynch and Richard Sherman, his defining moment came in 2014 as the Seahawks defeated Peyton Manning’s Denver Broncos 43-8 in the Super Bowl, while they were inches away from defending their crown against Tom Brady’s New England Patriots the following year.

Part of the widely renowned Stateside Jacks supporters’ group – while his friend Karl runs the San Diego Swans branch – the 38-year-old had been hoping to visit the Liberty Stadium for the first time this year.

And he sees similarities when comparing that Super Bowl-winning side with the current crop of Swansea players vying for a return to the Premier League.

“We were the youngest team in the NFL that year,” he recalls.

Those plans have been shelved due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic but, nevertheless, he hopes it won’t be long until he can make the journey over to the UK and enjoy first-hand experience of the Jack Army in full voice.

“We were a bunch of guys that were hungry, wanted to win and work hard every day to make the team better.

“It was in the works for this year, but I don’t know if that is going to happen now,” he said.

“That’s what I see in this Swansea squad right now – there is the same nucleus of guys that are young, hungry and want to win.

“Hopefully, travel permitting, I’ll be there next season.

“This year, I’ve been very impressed with Freddie Woodman and the way he’s held down the goalkeeping position. Rhian Brewster has played very well. I also love Andre Ayew, Wayne Routledge, Matt Grimes, Jay Fulton.

“If not, I’ll be watching from home, but I do want to try and catch a few games at the Liberty in the near future.”

The ongoing pandemic has also delayed the start of the 2020 CFL season and what would be Ryan’s second year back with hometown side Saskatchewan Roughriders.

“I just love this team right now and I’m a big believer in them.

“I’m happy with where we are and if things go well over the next month, we’ll hopefully see us back in the Premier League.

After winning the West Division, the Roughriders just missed out on last year’s Grey Cup – Canada’s equivalent of the Super Bowl – following defeat by

“It’ll be just like 2011 all over again!”

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

SWANSEA CITY'S FAMOUS FANS A

Following the Swans’ 2-1 victory over Manchester United in August 2015, the actress paid her own tribute to the club by buying inflatable swans for the swimming pool in her New York home.

s you can read elsewhere in this programme, Swansea City have another famous fan in the form of Super Bowl winning NFL star Jon Ryan, who has been cheering Steve Cooper's side on from his home in Los Angeles.

The couple woke up early on the day of the 85th Academy Awards in 2013 to watch the Swans win their first major trophy in the club’s history in the League Cup Final at Wembley and expressed their delight at the victory on the red carpet.

Having discovered the Swans in 2010, the exSeattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers punter is one of a number of notable people from a number of backgrounds who will be hoping Swansea City are successful in their play-off push in the coming weeks.

Haverfordwest-born comedian and actor Elis James can regularly be seen at the Liberty or in the away end of Championship grounds with the travelling Jacks.

Here, we take a look at some famous members of the Jack Army.

One of Swansea’s most famous daughters, Catherine Zeta-Jones, supports her hometown club from afar along with her husband, Hollywood megastar, Michael Douglas.

James has an extensive collection of retro Swansea City shirts which he wore whilst filming BBC Three sitcom Josh. In 2010, James claimed that the worst thing about being a comedian is that the timing of his live shows often clash with Swansea City matches.

The Welshman hosts the BBC podcast Elis James’ Feast of Football with former Welsh internationals Iwan Roberts and Danny Gabbidon, where he can often be found talking about the Swans.

The Swans were in royal company in February 2015 as Prince Albert of Monaco was a VIP guest as the Swans hosted Sunderland at the Liberty. During his short trip to Wales, Prince Albert was also spotted in a Mumbles bar sporting a Swansea City scarf.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY Former professional boxer Enzo Maccarinelli is another fighter who can be found in the terraces at the Liberty Stadium. The former world cruiserweight champion has supported the Swans for many years and was involved in the club’s kit launch for the 2018-19 season.

The 1-1 stalemate wasn’t the Prince’s first experience of football in SA1 as the son of Hollywood icon Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier had formerly sat in the director’s box at the Vetch Field with the Swans falling to a narrow 2-1 defeat to Monaco in a European Cup Winners’ Cup tie in 1991.

Welsh Hollywood actor Michael Sheen has supported his hometown club since childhood and claimed he would wear his Swansea City shirt with pride as a 12-year-old. During a family holiday, Sheen was offered a trial by Arsenal after being spotted by the father of ex-Arsenal star Tony Adams whilst wearing a Swans kit which earned him the nickname ‘Swansea’.

Sheen, who famously starred as Brian Clough in the hit film The Damned United¸ has supported the Swansea City Community Trust in recent years, attending the charity’s annual celebration event.

Just days after winning the Ryder Cup in Chicago in 2012, Spanish golf star Sergio Garcia swung into Swansea where he watched Michael Laudrup’s side train at Llandarcy before witnessing a 2-2 draw against Reading at the Liberty.

NBA superstar Dirk Nowitzki declared his support for the Liberty club after his brother-in-law, Martin Olsson, joined the side in 2017. Nowitzki’s wife Jessica is the older sister of former Swans left-back Olsson and his identical twin Marcus.

An avid football fan, Garcia made the trip to support Swans winger Pablo Hernandez, his sister ’s boyfriend.

A keen supporter of British football, the 7ft former Dallas Mavericks star often voiced his support for the club and also took to Twitter to post a picture of him cheering on Paul Clement’s side wearing his Swans shirt.

During the training session, Garcia was introduced to the squad and posed for pictures with the golf fans of the team. Garcia also claimed that he watched Swans matches on television from his home in the United States where possible.

A regular at the Liberty, UFC fighter Brett Johns has a love affair with the Swans that has stretched back many years.

The former two-time World champion is a Swansea City season ticket holder and has built up a close friendship with the likes of Swans defender Joe Rodon and former striker Oli McBurnie.

The trio were together in the away end at Cardiff City Stadium earlier this season for the South Wales Derby before Johns flew to North Carolina for training, where he was pictured training in his Swans shirt.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY Swansea-born boxer Jay Harris has been a Swans fan from a young age and received a huge Jack Army reception when he was paraded on the Liberty Stadium pitch before this season's Championship clash against Wigan.

Welsh singer and comedian, Max Boyce, has long been affiliated with Swansea City, with his song ‘Hymns and Arias’ becoming synonymous with the club. Having already performed at the Vetch, Boyce was asked to perform the song at the Liberty for the Swans’ first home Premier League match in 2011 and the Glynneath entertainer unveiled a special version of the song for the occasion.

Harris, who has held the Commonwealth flyweight title since 2017 and the European flyweight title since 2019, started going to the Vetch Field at the age of eight and fondly remembers Lee Trundle's famous shoulder roll with the ball.

American actor David Hasselhoff started supporting the club in recent years following his marriage to his Glynneath-born wife. Since then, the former Baywatch actor has attended matches at the Liberty Stadium and the 2013 League Cup Final at Wembley and has posted support for the team on social media.

The 29-year-old proudly displayed the Swans logo on his shorts in his fight for the WBC World Flyweight title in February.

Actor Henry Thomas, who famously played Elliott in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 film E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial has posted pictures on his Instagram account wearing his Swans colours to cheer on the club. The Gangs of New York star, who has Welsh roots, referred to himself as a Stateside Jack and is keen to watch a match at the Liberty in his next trip to Wales.

On the sporting front, Welsh Paralympic stars Aled Sion Davies and Paul Karabardak also have an allegiance to the Swans.

Two-time Paralympic gold medallist Davies, who claimed titles in the Discus and Shot Put, has regularly taken to social media to voice his support for the Jacks.

Despite his portrayal as a Cardiff City fan on popular BBC show Gavin and Stacey, Steffan Rhodri who plays ‘Dave Coaches’ on the show can often be seen at the Liberty or at away games. Rhodri, who hails from Morriston, grew up watching the Swans and was a regular visitor to the Vetch Field during the golden era under John Toshack.

Karabardak, meanwhile, has represented Great Britain in table tennis at three Paralympic Games, and is also a two-time European champion and World bronze medallist.

He has supported the club for over 20 years, and has been a season ticket holder for the last decade.

Rob Brydon who plays ‘Uncle Bryn’ on Gavin and Stacey has also been known to show his support for Swansea City. The Baglan-born actor and comedian cheered on the Swans from the Vetch Field as a youngster. Brydon expressed his support for his hometown club by sending the squad a good luck message ahead of the 2011 Championship playoffs.

Meanwhile, Melanie Walters who played 'Gwen' in the comedy is also a member of the Jack Army and was present at the film premiere of Jack to a King in 2014.

Welsh actor Ioan Gruffudd supported the Swans whilst growing up in Aberdare and described Bob Latchford and Leighton James as his childhood ‘heroes’. The Titanic actor posted a picture of himself as a child wearing a 1981-82 season Swansea City kit holding a Swansea City bag.

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PRIFYSGOL ABERTAWE SWANSEA UNIVERSITY DRWS I DDYFODOL DISGLAIR WHERE BRIGHT FUTURES BEGIN

YMGEISIWCH NAWR

abertawe.ac.uk/clirio swansea.ac.uk/clearing Teaching Excellence Framework Y dyfarniad uchaf (Aur) am ragoriaeth addysgu ym mhrifysgolion y DU

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

SWANSEA CITY 0 LUTON TOWN 1 DATE: SATURDAY, JUNE 27 ˚ VENUE: LIBERTY STADIUM ˚ ATTENDANCE: N/A ˚ REFEREE: ANDY WOOLMER

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wansea City ’s play-off hopes suffered a setback as James Collins’ second-half header gave Luton all three points at the Liberty Stadium.

SWANSEA CITY 0

The striker rose to head home a pinpoint cross with 17 minutes to go, and the Swans – who had Jordon Garrick sent off late on – could not find a way back into the game.

Collins 72'

LUTON TOWN 1 Swans: Freddie Woodman; Connor Roberts, Ben Wilmot, Ben Cabango (Wayne Routledge 86), Jake Bidwell; Jay Fulton (George Byers 58), Matt Grimes (captain); Aldo Kalulu (Jordon Garrick 46), Conor Gallagher, Andre Ayew; Rhian Brewster.

I t wa s a d i s a p p o i n t i n g p e r fo r m a n c e f r o m Steve Cooper ’s side, after they had resumed Championship action in such impressive fashion at Middlesbrough a week earlier.

But they struggled to find that sort of fluency a s t h e H att e r s s t a r t e d t h e s h a r p e r of t h e two sides without really working goalkeeper Freddie Woodman.

Subs not used: Erwin Mulder, Kyle Naughton, Joe Rodon, Marc Guehi, Yan Dhanda,, Nathan Dyer.

Luton Town: Simon Sluga, Matty Pearson, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Sonny Bradley (captain), Dan Potts (Martin Cranie 90); Harry Cornick (Danny Hylton 90), Glen Rea, Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu, Jacob Butterfield (Izzy Brown 59), Elliot Lee (James Bree 69); James Collins.

Midway through the first half the Swans did c raft a c h a n c e fo r A n d r e Ayew f r o m J a ke Bidwell’s well-weighted pass, but Simon Sluga in the Luton goal did well to stand tall and parry the Ghanaian’s volley.

Ben Cabango went close after the break, Sluga palming away his header from a Matt Grimes corner as the Swans toiled in search of the breakthrough.

Subs not used: Ryan Tunnicliffe, Callum McManaman, Andrew Shinnie, George Moncur, James Shea.

However, it was the visitors who got the crucial first goal thanks to Collins’ powerful header, which Woodman got a hand to but could not keep out.

Key quote:

" WE WERE WAY OFF IT. WE CAN’T EXPECT TO PLAY LIKE THAT AND WIN A GAME OF FOOTBALL. IT WAS ALL OUR OWN MAKING; WE WERE NOWHERE NEAR GOOD ENOUGH." MATT GRIMES

Grimes had a free-kick tipped over the bar as the Swans sought a response, but Garrick’s red card for violent conduct following a melee between a group of players effectively ended hopes of a dramatic comeback.

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MILLWALL 1 SWANSEA CITY 1 DATE: TUESDAY, JUNE 30 ˚ VENUE: THE NEW DEN ˚ ATTENDANCE: N/A ˚ REFEREE: JAMES LININGTON

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MILLWALL 1

hian Brewster’s free-kick helped Swansea City come from behind to pick up a hardearned point against Millwall at The Den.

Bennett 21'

SWANSEA CITY 3

The on-loan Liverpool forward’s free-kick beat Lions keeper Bartosz Bialkowski to find the net via a combination of the underside of the bar and the back of the Crotian.

Bialkowski 66' og

Millwall: Bartosz Bialkowski, Mahlon Romeo, Shaun Hutchinson (captain), Jake Cooper, Murray Wallace; Jed Wallace, Ryan Woods, Shaun Williamson, Shane Ferguson; Mason Bennett (Connor Mahoney 46), Tom Bradshaw (Matt Smith 84).

It cancelled out Mason Bennett’s firsthalf opener and ensured Steve Cooper ’s Swans picked up a positive result after their disappointment against Luton.

Cooper had made three changes to his side as Kyle Naughton, George Byers and Yan Dhanda were all handed starting opportunities.

Subs not used: Luke Steele, Alex Pearce, Ryan Leonard, Billy Mitchell, Jayson Molumby, Jiri Skalak, Ben Thompson.

It proved a scrappy st ar t , with both sides looking to remain in touch in the play-off hunt, with Conor Gallagher having a shot deflected wide for the Swans.

Swans: Freddie Woodman; Kyle Naughton, Ben Cabango, Ben Wilmot (Marc Guehi 83), Jake Bidwell; George Byers, Matt Grimes (captain); Andre Ayew, Conor Gallagher, Yan Dhanda (Bersant Celina 59); Rhian Brewster.

But it was the hosts who took the lead when the Swans lost possession in midfield and Millwall countered in numbers.

Subs not used: Erwin Mulder, Connor Roberts, Nathan Dyer, Wayne Routledge, Jay Fulton, Aldo Kalulu, Liam Cullen.

Jed Wallace made the most of a lucky ricochet as Ben Wilmot’s block came back to him, and he teed up on-loan Derby striker Bennett for a simple finish.

Key quote:

Brewster had an effort cleared off the line by Jake Cooper from a Wilmot head as the Swans sought a response.

"THERE WAS SOME GOOD PLAY TO GET THE FREEKICK THAT RHIAN HAS PUT AWAY REALLY WELL, AND I AM DISAPPOINTED WE DID NOT CAPITALISE ON THAT." STEVE COOPER

And the striker would get them back on level terms after Gallagher had been fouled on the edge of the area, bending a superb free-kick past Bialkowski, who inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.

B oth side s had chanc e s t o win it , Murray Wallace hitting the post for Millwall, but it ended all-square.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

STILETTOS AND STUDS W

REGULAR COLUMNIST JULIE KISSICK GIVES HER TAKE ON THE RECENT EVENTS SURROUNDING SWANSEA CITY

e’re back at the Liberty Stadium today and the clash with Sheffield Wednesday also sees the return of Garry Monk to Swansea.

His contribution on Tuesday night at The Den made all the difference and while football is a team effort, his quality has had a huge impact on the side during his time with us.

Now at the helm at Hillsborough, Garry has gone from managing the Swans to being in charge of the Owls. His side dealt a blow to Bristol City last weekend as their 2-1 victory meant another dent to their play-off hopes.

After the game against Millwall a number of the players tweeted, including Brewster. His read: “Never going to be an easy day at The Den but we fought to the end. The aim remains the same.

Hungry to finish strong. #YJB #JackArmy”

Unfortunately, we know all about fading hopes following our post-lockdown results where the euphoria of a 3-0 win, was quickly followed by a 1-0 defeat and a 1-1 draw.

The last four words ‘hungry to finish strong’ stood out for me. They are the most significant because they sum up the mentality of someone who isn’t just going through the motions to get the season done, but who recognises the importance of passion and perseverance.

We’re not out of it yet though, although we’ve undoubtedly got a lot to do in the remaining games if we are going to be in with a chance of a place in the top six.

This is a young man with a point to prove. His loan spell from Liverpool has six games to run but what happens next isn’t something he is focusing on.

There is still time and no doubt Steve Cooper and his staff will be working flat-out with the players in an attempt to make that happen.

He told Sky Sports after the game: “I just want to finish the season, and hopefully get promoted.

That’s the aim.

As fans, our frustrations are heightened because our contribution is limited by our absence because of the pandemic. There is no opportunity to show our support physically, although we still have a part to play. A positive environment is essential if players are to perform to their best. We can help create that online and across social media. We still have a lot to be positive about and there is no doubt that for the players, support is essential as they go into the final few games.

"I don’t know if I’ll be here [with Swansea] next season, I don’t know if I’m going to be with Liverpool. I don’t know where I’m going to be next year, I just want to finish the season strongly and see what happens next season.”

That mindset is as important in life as it is in sport and as most psychologists will tell you, if you can maintain it, regardless of the result, you have succeeded. Mental toughness is something every player, regardless of the level they play at, has to learn and nothing harms a team’s culture and performance more than negativity.

So, let’s focus on the positives – let me identify one - Rhian Brewster. What a powerhouse he is and how fortunate are we to have him with us?

He oozes class on the pitch and he has been a joy to watch since he joined us on loan in January.

Six goals – well, let’s say seven as I’m awarding him the goal at Millwall even if Opta aren’t - in 14 appearances speaks for itself.

As supporters, let’s do our job - support the side and follow Brewster’s lead - stay positive and trust the boys to give their best. No one can give any more.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

ERTHYGLAU CYMRAEG IAN MITCHELMORE, WALES ONLINE

M

ae'r chwyddwydr ar y chwech uchaf y Pencampwriaeth wedi bod yn cryf iawn yn diweddar.

Ar ol y buddugoliaeth gwych yn erbyn Middlesbrough yn y gem cyntaf ar ol i'r tymor ail ddechrau, mae Abertawe wedi colli i Luton a cael gêm gyfartal hefo Millwall yn Llundain.

Ac mae'n amlwg iawn i ddweud mae canlyniadau Abertawe ers i dim Steve Cooper ennill yn erbyn Boro wedi sicrhau bod angan i'r Elyrch bod yn perffaith am ddiwedd y tymor.

Ond ar ol i'r Tylluanod ail-ddechrau'r tymor gyda canlyniadau positif yn erbyn Nottingham Forest a Bristol City, mi fydd yr tîm oddi cartref yn hyderus iawn yn mynd i fewn i'r gem prynhawn yma.

Dim ond chwech gem sydd ar ol o'r tymor, gyda Sheffield Wednesday yn trafeilio i'r Stadiwm Liberty heddiw yn yr gem cyntaf o'r cyfres yna.

Wrth gwrs, mae yna nifer o broblemau i Cooper ceisio datrys. Mae'n edrych fel fydd Joe Rodon yn methu gemau olaf y tymor ar ôl anafu ei ffêr mewn sesiwn hyfforddi cyn y gem yn erbyn Millwall.

Ac wrth gwrs, mae hynny'n gweld cyn chwaraewr a rheolwr Abertawe Garry Monk yn dod yn ôl i De Cymru.

Mae'r Elyrch wedi gwynebu timau Monk tair gwaith yn gyfan gwbl, dwywaith o dan Graham Potter ac unwaith o dan Cooper yn barod y tymor yma.

Gyda Mike van der Hoorn allan am gyfnod hir yn barod, wnaeth problemau amddiffynnol Abertawe mynd yn waeth ar Dydd Mawrth, gyda Ben Wilmot yn mynd oddi ar y cae gyda anaf.

Mae Monk yn ceisio ennill yn erbyn Abertawe fel rheolwr am y tro cyntaf heddiw, ond tydi'r gwr o Bedford byth wedi colli fel rheolwr yn erbyn ei hen glwb chwaith.

Os mae gem heddiw yn dod yn rhy gynnar i Wilmot, mi fydd yna cyfle mawr i Marc Guehi dechrau gêm am y tro cyntaf ers canol mis Chwefror.

Ddaru tim Potter cael dau gem gyfartal yn erbyn Birmingham yn ystod y tymor diwethaf, gyda'r gem yn St Andrew's yn gorffen yn ddi-sgor ac yr gem yn Abertawe yn gorffen 3-3 yn mis gyntaf 2019.

Mae'r amddiffynwr sydd ar fenthyg o Chelsea wedi aros yn amyneddgar i ddangos ei werth, ac efallai fydd yr chwech gem olaf o'r tymor yn rhoi cyfle iddo profi ei hun.

Ond mae angen i dîm Cooper newid yr record yna heddiw i cadw gobeithion o orffen y tymor yn yr chwech uchaf yn fyw.

Gyda amser yn rhedeg allan, mae angen i'r Elyrch dechrau ennill gemau yn sydyn.

Ond mi fydd Monk - chwedl clwb Abertawe - yn digon hapus i ddifetha'r parti heddiw. Mae angen i Cooper dyfeisio plan i sicrhau mae'r Elyrch yn aros yn y cymysg i herio'r chwech uchaf am ddiwedd y tymor.

Heb cefnogwyr yn presennol oherwydd y pandemig coronafeirws, fydd Monk ddim yn cael y derbyniad fuasai'n gallu disgwyl fel arfer, gan rhan fwyaf o'r cefnogwyr Abertawe o leiaf.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

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GARRYA MONK

familiar face, Monk needs no introduction to Swansea fans given he gave the club more than a decade of service as player and manager.

The former defender made over 250 appearances and played in all four divisions after joining the Swans from Southampton in 2004.

He captained them in the Championship play-off final victory against Reading at Wembley in 2011, as well as lifting the first major trophy in the club's history following the League Cup final win over Bradford two years later.

Following the departure of Michael Laudrup in February 2014, he took over as an interim manager and his appointment became permanent at the end of the season. He oversaw an eighth-place finish in 2015 – the club’s best in the Premier League – but left the Swans after a disappointing start to the following campaign.

The 41-year-old has since had spells with Leeds, Middlesbrough and Birmingham, before replacing Steve Bruce at Hillsborough in September 2019.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY WHAT'S THEIR STORY? Sheffield Wednesday remain the last team outside the top tier to win one of English football’s major trophies, having claimed League Cup glory in 1991 with victory over Manchester United thanks to a John Sheridan goal.

The Owls, who reached the FA Cup and League Cup finals two years later, have spent most of their league history in the top flight but have not played at that level since being relegated in 2000.

They are in their eighth consecutive Championship season since being promoted to the second tier following a second-place finish in League One in 2012.

Wednesday came close to returning to the Premier League twice under former Swansea boss Carlos Carvalhal; losing in the play-off final against Hull City at Wembley in 2016, and to Huddersfield in the semi-finals exactly 12 months later.

HOW'S THEIR FORM?

WHO ARE THE KEY MEN?

Despite a strong start, Wednesday are struggling for form heading into the final stretch of the Championship season.

Following the departure of 13-goal top scorer Steven Fletcher earlier this week, on-loan Connor Wickham is the man most likely to fill the void left by the Scotland international having netted twice in Wednesday’s three games since their return.

A regular feature in and around the play-off places until early January, a run of just two wins in 13 matches has seen the Owls slip into the bottom half of the table.

A nother player c urrently on lo an at Hillsborough, Jacob Murphy has chipped in with five goals from the wing, while exCardiff man Kadeem Harris also provides plenty of pace down the flanks.

They made a positive return to action, salvaging a late point against Nottingham Forest before beating Bristol City 2-1.

However, they head to the Liberty on Sunday aiming for a response after Wednesday's 3-0 defeat at the hands of promotion-chasing West Brom.

The experienced Barry Bannan has notched up seven assists from midfield, with the former Aston Villa man missing just two games for Wednesday in 2019-20.

Meanwhile, there appears to have been a changing of the guard between the posts.

Although Cameron Dawson has kept goal for most of the season, Joe Wildsmith has started all three of the Owls’ games since the campaign’s resumption.

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PAST MEETINGS

We look back at past encounters between the sides in the Championship, FA Cup and Third Division.

Swans 2 Sheffield Wednesday 1 Championship – December 15, 2018

Swans 1 Sheffield Wednesday 1 Championship – August 30, 2008

The Swans made it two wins in a week as they came from behind to beat the Owls 2-1 at the Liberty.

Ferrie Bodde’s stunning goal looked set to seal victory against Wednesday until Steve Watson’s effort earned the visitors a point.

Graham Potter’s side were staring at a painful defeat when Marco Matias fired the visitors in front just after the hour mark.

Bodde was turning heads up and down the county with his sparkling performances at the start of the 2008-09 season, when Roberto Martinez’s Swans were settling well in the Championship.

But the hosts dug deep to fight their way back into the contest.

And the Dutchman sent the Liberty into raptures after 36 minutes when he stole possession, strode forward and unleashed a 25-yard drive which whistled beyond Owls keeper Lee Grant and into the net.

Substitute Bersant Celina equalised within five minutes of coming on as he stroked Connor Roberts’ cutback into the far corner.

And barely a minute later, Wayne Routledge delivered what proved to be the winner, latching onto Celina’s through ball before slotting home between the legs of Cameron Dawson.

Ashley Williams and Febian Brandy both hit the post, but the Swans were punished late on when Marcus Tudgay crossed for Watson to nod home.

Swans 2 Sheffield Wednesday 0 FA Cup – February 27, 2018

Swans 4 Sheffield Wednesday 2 Division Three – December 2, 1978

The Swans reached the FA Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1964 after overcoming Wednesday in their fifth-round replay.

John Toshack’s team chalked up a memorable home victory over the Owls as they took another step towards promotion from Division Three.

Following a 0-0 draw at Hillsborough 10 days earlier, a low-key first half ensued on a freezing night at the Liberty.

The Swans went ahead inside a minute through Phil Boersma then, after a swift Wednesday equaliser, made it 2-1 through Toshack on 15 minutes.

However, the hosts broke through 10 minutes into the second half, as Jordan Ayew tapped in the opener after Tom Carroll’s fierce effort struck both posts.

The visitors levelled again before the break, but Toshack struck again early in the second period and Jeremy Charles quickly made it 4-2 to seal the points.

Nathan Dyer put the tie beyond doubt eight minutes from time, when he ran onto Tammy Abraham’s through ball before finishing through the legs of Cameron Dawson.

Swansea finished third to seal automatic promotion to the second tier at the end of the season.

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ONES TO WATCH

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

Dominic Iorfa Age: 25 Position: Defender

Barry Bannan Age: 30 Position: Midfielder

The England under-21 international joined the Owls from Wolves in January 2019 and has been solid and consistent in defence this season. A product of initially Southend and then the Wolves academy, Iorfa reached a half-century of appearances when the Owls faced Bristol City last weekend. Iorfa began life at Hillsborough as a rightback but has been shifted into the heart of the club’s defence by Garry Monk and has made the position his own.

The Scottish international joined the Owls in August 2015 and has gone on to make 203 appearances, scoring 11 goals and making 32 assists along the way. A fans’ favourite due to his consistent and hardworking performances, Bannan joined Aston Villa’s academy from boyhood club Celtic at the age of 14. The playmaker has made 38 appearances for Garry Monk’s side this season and has netted twice.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

Jacob Murphy Age: 25 Position: Midfielder

Kadeem Harris Age: 27 Position: Midfielder

Connor Wickham Age: 27 Position: Forward

Murphy joined the Owls on loan from Newcastle United last summer and has since become the club’s secondtop scorer with five goals to his name after a difficult start to life at Hillsborough. The twin brother of Cardiff City winger Josh Murphy, Jacob has had a nomadic career, embarking on eight loan moves in six years including spells with the likes of West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City. The Wembley-born winger has also represented England at under-21 level.

The former Cardiff City midfielder joined the Owls on a free transfer in July 2019.

Primarily a left winger, the speedy wideman can also operate down the right flank.

Harris began his career with Wycombe and became the club’s youngest debutant at the age of 16 before winning EFL Apprentice of the Year in his maiden campaign.

After scoring six goals in 70 appearances for Cardiff, Harris has featured in 37 of the Owls’ 40 fixtures this season.

Following the departure of Steven Fletcher, Connor Wickham has stepped up to the mark and scored in consecutive games for the first time since November 2016 when he netted against Bristol City last weekend. The Crystal Palace loanee has returned to the pitch, full of confidence and has proven himself as an aerial threat, with the former Sunderland forward’s two goals this season coming from corners.

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WOODMAN BETWEEN THE WOODWORK

T

he impact a loanee makes at a football club can have varied success, but Freddie Woodman’s time at Swansea City has proved a win-win on both a personal and professional level.

While the push for promotion looks set for a tantalising finish in the race for a play-off spot, Woodman can look back on his time so far with huge satisfaction. Not that he’s done yet.

The Londoner has spent the season on loan with the Swans from Premier League side Newcastle United.

“It’s my first full season at Championship level and the aim was to get as many minutes under my belt as possible and try to improve,” said Woodman.

His time in SA1 has been a huge plus for both player and club, with the Swans stopper making a big impact on the pitch while he’s a hugely popular member of the dressing room.

“I also wanted to play in this league to get the experience of playing in the derbies and other big atmospheres like we had at Elland Road.

He has kept 12 clean sheets in 40 Championship appearances, while the 23-year-old has also saved three penalties.

“I came a few days before the start of the season so I didn’t have much time to adapt. But, on reflection, I think it went very smoothly working with Marge (Martyn Margetson).

A regular between the sticks under Steve Cooper, Woodman’s footballing ability – on top of his shotstopping qualities – make for a perfect fit.

40

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY “The club had a new head coach and Marshy (Mike Marsh) as assistant, while big players like Oli McBurnie and Daniel James left too, among others, so it was a big change for the club.

coastline when that’s possible because I’m told it’s really nice there too.

“So it’s a great place to live and work because there’s so much to do here. I’ve fallen in love with south west Wales.

“So far I think I’ve put in some good performances, which I’m pleased with. It’s been a fantastic experience.

“I’ve had a few loan spells and they were good for me, but for me – and you can ask any of the new signings too – this club and city is the quickest place you can settle in.”

“We still have six games left to play – hopefully three more after that.

“So to be just four points off the play-offs with six games left I think it’s been a very positive season so far.

Woodman’s glowing assessment of his temporary surroundings would even make Visit Wales blush.

He speaks with as much passion about his time on the pitch as he does of life off it in south west Wales.

“ The big word in this league is consistency.

Everyone wants it, but it’s hard to do. Whoever accomplishes that in the remaining six games will be in the play-offs. Hopefully that will be us.

But spending a few minutes in his presence makes you quickly realise he’s not your average footballer.

“I’ve absolutely loved it here. I don’t want it to end because I’m really enjoying it.”

T hroughout the lockdown imposed during coronavirus and the subsequent postponement of football, Woodman returned home to his parents’ home in London.

Life on the pitch has been a big success. So too, has life off it.

Having grown up in the hustle and bustle of London, Woodman made the long journey away from home when he joined Newcastle from boyhood club Crystal Palace in 2013.

He has made four appearances – in the FA Cup – for the Magpies since then, whole loan spells at Hartlepool, Crawley, Kilmarnock and Aberdeen followed.

Then a trip to Swansea, where Woodman’s eyes were opened. All for the right reasons.

“It was a big change in lifestyle going from London to Newcastle and then to Swansea,” Woodman points out. “The people here made it very easy to settle. They’re so nice.

“Then we have the beautiful beaches. I hadn’t actually been on a beach in Britain before I came to Swansea. I’m told there are a few around Newcastle, but I didn’t get around to seeing them.

“You can’t help but be on a beach here because you’re surrounded by them. I love Rhossili, Caswell and Langland Bay. There’s a few more I’ve been to, while I hope to tick off Tenby and the Pembrokeshire

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There, he spent time doing the weekly shopping for his grandparents, delivering groceries and essentials to their doorstep.

“I’ve been reading a book on meditation, and it’s been great. I’ve done meditation since the start of the year and I’ve benefited so much from it.

On top of that, Woodman stuck to a stringent fitness programme put together by the Swans’ fitness team to ensure the squad remained in top shape. He also made good use of a home gym he had built last summer.

“It’s all about different techniques and it’s really helped me. I’ve done it before games and it’s made me more mindful and focused.

“I’m nearly finished with the book, but I’ve got a book on Ayrton Senna that I’m going to throw myself into next.”

He would also take up some new hobbies to benefit him on and off the pitch.

Steer the Swans to the promised land of the Premier League this summer, and both player and club will be back in the fast lane.

“I did a lot of reading in my spare time,” said Woodman, who won the Under-20s World Cup with England in 2017.

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JACK THE LAD I

f anyone thinks fans don’t matter to footb all, then they haven’t watched - or listened to - any of the matches since football returned after the coronavirus break.

I tuned into the radio for bits of the Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal matches on British football’s first night back.

Being of a certain age, I remember when most football matches in this country were broadcast over the airwaves.

So I have become more than accustomed to listening to football on the radio over the years.

And I have to say, listening to those matches was like nothing I have ever experienced before.

When you’re just depending on your ears, you don’t realise how much you rely on the crowd noise to let you know what’s going on, and how attuned you become to certain sounds and reactions from supporters.

No matter how good the radio commentary – and there are some absolutely brilliant commentators out there – the men and women behind the mic are generally a split-second behind the action.

46

There have been many times when I have known exactly what is happening on the pitch, just before the commentator tells me.

Just think, how many times have you listened to a match, nibbling at your nails when the Swans are under the cosh and heard the commentator say that a player is lining up a shot on goal, but the “ooooh” of the crowd has already eased your anxiety and told you that the effort has thankfully flashed wide before the commentary has confirmed it?

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY And how often has the roar of crowd told you that an effort has hit the net and set you off celebrating around your living room before the commentator cries “one-nil”!

I’ve even got to the point where I can tell what’s happening in general play before the commentating team tell us.

The obvious one is the united roar of “handball” when the ball goes anyway near a player’s upper limb, but you also know instinctively when there has been a bad tackle or a brilliant pass by the reaction of the crowd.

And it’s not just in football I can do this. I remember years ago when TalkSport won the rights to broadcast the Rugby World Cup, despite them having no heritage in the sport.

I remember listening to one commentary while driving when the commentator asked the ‘expert’ summariser “what happened there?” after a penalty had been awarded.

“It was a high tackle” I shouted at the radio, having heard the crowd’s reaction. A few minutes later, the commentary team confirmed the penalty had in fact been awarded for a high tackle.

Sports crowds react in very specific ways to various passages of play, something the sound technicians adding crowd atmosphere to the televised matches have been quickly finding out over the past few weeks.

To be fair, some of them have done a pretty good job of it, but personally I find the “canned crowd” sound a bit distracting.

Nothing can recreate the reactions of a live crowd . . . especially the atmosphere generated by the Liberty Stadium faithful.

A n d n ot h i n g c a n r e p l i c at e actually being at a game - helping to play a part in the atmosphere, drama and sometimes even the outcome.

Welsh international players have often talked about the effect the crowd has on them when they sing Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau, sensing the team needs a lift.

However, there is one thing I have thoroughly enjoyed since “Project Restart” kicked in and we have all had to depend on watching the TV or listening to the radio to keep up with the action.

I have to admit, I had only ever caught short snippets of the Swans TV coverage of matches before the last couple of weeks as I was always at the games.

But I tuned in to watch the action from the Riverside Stadium as the Swans took on Middlesbrough on their return to Championship action.

What an absolute treat!

I know the Swans racing into a 3-0 lead after half an hour would have helped, but I don’t think I have ever enjoyed watching a televised, or streamed, match more in my entire life.

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If you’ ve never heard the commentary trio of Anthony O’Connell, Wyndham Evans and Alan Curtis in action before, I can’t recommend it highly enough.

In a previous professional life I had the pleasure of working on a daily basis with Anthony, so I know just how funny he can be, but also how knowledgeable he is about football and his burning passion for the Swans.

A nthony ’s enthusiasm and experience as a commentator, combined with the additional comments from two absolute football heroes from my teenage years, provided the perfect recipe for commentary success.

Just like Anthony, Wyndham and Curt’s passion for the Swans crackled through the airwaves as they watched the action unfold on Teeside.

B ut the added bonus from these heroes of the Swans’ late Seventies and early Eighties rise to the top flight, is that they have both been there and done it out on the pitch.

So as well as the “ooohs” and “ahhhs” and shouts of “clear it” . . . especially from Wyndham, we are treated to nuggets of football wisdom that can only come from ex-professional players.

It was like watching the game down the pub with your Swans supporting mates . . . but mates who were actual bona fide Swans heroes.

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

A nd there were also some moments of absolutely comedy gold when Anthony asked Wyndham what he thought of handshakes being replaced by “elbow bumps” due to the threat of coronavirus infection between players.

Quick as a flash Curt pointed out that the tough-as-teak, nononsense full-back used to dish

out his own version of “elbow bumps” at regular intervals during matches!

And asked about the introduction of water breaks at the mid-point in each half, both players pointed out that the only hydration they were afforded in their day was a half-time and full-time cup of tea “with about 14 sugars”, closely followed by “the first pint of the night”.

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Nothing will be able to match the joy of watching a game live, but Messers O’Connell, Curtis and Evans, came very close when they described the action played out on a sunny afternoon in Middlesbrough.

C'mon you Swans!

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SWANS 2 - 1 SHEFF WEDS SWANS 2 - 0 SHEFF WEDS SWANS 0 - 0 SHEFF WEDS SWANS 1 - 1 SHEFF WEDS

SWANS 19-20

ACCURATE CROSSES PER GAME

MATT GRIMES BERSANT CELINA JACK BIDWELL YAN DHANDA

1.3 0.9 0.6 0.5

TALKING TACTICS: JAKE BIDWELL O

n the back of their 1-1 draw at Millwall in the week, Swansea City are back in action on home turf on Sunday when they host Sheffield Wednesday (12pm).

T he st alemat e at the D en, combined with results elsewhere, means the Swans didn't really lose ground in the race for the play-offs, but there is still a four-point gap to make up between themselves and rivals Cardiff in sixth.

H o w e v e r, i n S h e f f i e l d Wednesday, the stats suggest Swansea will welcome a hospitable opponent. Indeed, two wins in 13 leaves Garry Monk 's side mired in midtable, though one of those two victories came in their last away jaunt - a 2-1 win at play-off chasing Bristol City, so caution must be applied here.

Yet, in south Wales, Swansea hold the upper hand against their Championship counterparts. The Owls have failed to win their last four trips to the Swans, losing the last two. Swansea earned a 2-1 win in this fixture last season and Cooper would like nothing more than to oversee a repeat of that victory as they look to close the gap on the top six.

H o w e v e r, w h i l e S h e f f i e l d Wednesday have struggled in front of their own fans, their away form leaves plenty to be positive about ahead of this meeting.

Only Brentford (33) have scored more away goals than the Owls (32) in the Championship this season and with 'attacking down the wings' a statisticallycalculated WhoScored.com strength of theirs, left-back Jake Bidwell has a big 90 minutes on his hands.

The 27-year-old is expected to feature from the off at the back once more for Cooper's team having started 30 of 40 league m at c h e s t h i s s e a s o n . A n d he'll face a tough test against S h e f f i e l d We d n e s d a y, b u t with a statistically-calculated WhoScored.com strength of 'concentration', Bidwell has the means to keep his wits about him to order to limit any attacks down his side of the pitch.

W i t h S h eff i e l d We d n e s d ay developing a WhoScored.com style of play of 'attempt crosses often', Bidwell and fellow rightback Connor Roberts can expect a testing afternoon, so it's vital they remain alert in order to ensure the Owls enjoy as little luck as possible down the flanks.

Conversely, though, Swansea will hope to maximise home advantage and put the Sheffield Wednesday backline to the sword.

The Swans boast a WhoScored. com style of play of 'attacking down the left' and this plays into Bidwell's hands given he has gained strengths of 'crossing' and 'key passes', so he is the ideal player to ensure this style of approach reaps the desired rewards.

However, for any defender, the first port of call is ensuring the Swansea goal is kept quiet and given Sheffield Wednesday play in a three-man defence, making sure wing-back Jacob Murphy has minimal impact in the final third is crucial.

A winger by trade, Murphy has been required to operate in a deeper role, but that doesn't negatively impact his attacking output. The 25-year-old has five goals and two assists to his name this season, including an assist for Connor Wickham's opener in the 2-1 win at Bristol City.

With a WhoScored.com strength of 'dribbling', Murphy has the means to ghost past an opponent and either drive for goal himself or get down the right to put a ball into the box.

With that in mind, Bidwell needs to do all he can to keep Murphy quiet. If able to, then Swansea will at least keep a clean sheet and if afforded the opportunity to get forward, then the defender can add to his two assists and help Swansea to a vital three points in their promotion push.

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

#JACKSATHOME T

he presence of the Jack Army has been hugely missed since Swansea City returned from lockdown last month – both at the Liberty and on the road.

share your photos as you follow the Swans from around the globe.

Here are some of the best ones from our three games so far.

A lthough, it has been great to see you all cheering us along from home as we aim to finish the Championship season on a high.

If you want to feature as part of today’s match coverage, simply tweet us your photos using #JacksAtHome!

On matchdays, we’ve been asking you to get in touch across our social media channels and

54

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

55

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

THE VETCH FIELD A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE M

ay 11 this year marked 15 years since Swansea City played their final game at their former Vetch Field home, having secured a promotion and FAW Premier Cup double under Kenny Jackett.

To mark the anniversary, we spoke to a number of the key figures from that memorable season as they lifted the lid on life among that Swansea squad.

56

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

PART ONE | PRE-SEASON TOUR OF HOLLAND Part one goes behind the scenes of the build-up to the season, including a number of key arrivals and some high jinks on the pre-season tour of Holland.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH PART ONE

PART TWO | THE START OF THE 04/05 SEASON

With pre-season completed, the Swans were ready to kick off the 2004-05 season with high hopes and expectations.

They would not start as they would have liked as a number of new faces settled in, but it was not long before they hit their stride and laid down a promotion marker.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH PART TWO

PART THREE | FOOTBALL OVER TURKEY The Christmas and New Year period is often viewed as a key period in any season with fans able to enjoy more football than turkey over a hectic festive period.

It would prove the case for Kenny Jackett’s men during the 2004-05 campaign, and it was rounded off with a big win at Boston.

But the most memorable part of that dramatic win actually occurred off the pitch, as the players returned to their dressing rooms with tempers still high.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH PART THREE 57

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

03330 112 112

SCREWFIX.COM

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For the latest news and to share your match day experiences, follow…

EFL

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More THAN JUST AN Estate Agent SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

THE BIG QUIZ

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF BOTH SIDES WITH TODAY’S TEASERS.

ROUND

ONE

ROUND

ROUND

TODAY’S VISITORS

A FOOT IN BOTH CAMPS

PAST MEETINGS

TWO

1. In what season did Wednesday reach the final of the League Cup and FA Cup?

1. Which future Swansea boss guided Wednesday to the Championship play-offs in consecutive season?

2. And who beat them on both occasions at Wembley?

2. This man is currently in charge of which Portuguese side?

3. How many seasons did the Owls spend in the Premier League?

3. During which season did Garry Monk spend time on loan with the Owls?

4. And who were his parent club at the time?

1. The spoils were shared when the sides met at Hillsborough in November. What was the final score?

2. And who scored a last-ditch equaliser for the Swans that day?

3. In what year did Wednesday last taste victory in Swansea?

4. Who scored the Swans’ winner when the sides last met here in December 2018?

Round One: 1) 1992-93. 2) Arsenal. 3) Eight. 4) Mark Bright.

Round Two: 1) Carlos Carvalhal. 2) Rio Ave. 3) 2002-03. 4) Southampton.

Round Three: 1) 2-2. 2) Ben Wilmot. 3) 1983. 4) Wayne Routledge.

4. Who was the club’s top scorer in the first three of those?

THREE

61

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

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SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

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MAIN PARTNERS

CLUB PARTNERS

OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS

PLAYER SPONSORS BERSANT CELINA

MATT GRIMES

CONNOR ROBERTS

BEN WILMOT

MIKE VAN DER HOORN

ANDRE AYEW

KYLE NAUGHTON

GEORGE BYERS

FREDDIE WOODMAN

JOE RODON

JAKE BIDWELL

WAYNE ROUTLEDGE

MARC GUEHI

RHIAN BREWSTER

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LIAM CULLEN

CONOR GALLAGHER

BECOME A

PLAYER SPONSOR 67

Other player sponsorships are still available. For specific availability please contact: sponsorship@swanseacity.com or call 01792 616 624

SEASON 2019-20 FIXTURE

Match Statistics

Key

Goal = ●

Captain = C

Sub = 2 (number denotes player replaced)

Booked =

DATE

ATT. TEAM

Hull City H W 2-1

Sat, Aug 3, 3pm

15,741

Woodman

Roberts

v.d. Hoorn ●

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Derby County A D 0-0

Sat, Aug 10, 3pm

27,337

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

N'ton Town (CC R1) H W 3-1

Tues, Aug 13, 7.45pm

8,058

Nordfeldt

Naughton C

Cabango

Wilmot

John

Byers ●

Preston North End H W 3-2

Sat, Aug 17, 3pm

15,250

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

QPR A W 1-3

Wed, Aug 21, 7.45pm

12,287

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Birmingham City H W 3-0

Sun, Aug 25, 12pm

17,277

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell 1

Fulton

Cambridge United (CC R2) H W 6-0

Wed, Aug 28, 7.45pm

8,763

Nordfeldt

Naughton C 2

Cabango

Wilmot

John

Byers ●

Leeds United A W 0-1

Sat, Aug 31, 3pm

34,935

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Nottingham Forest H L 0-1

Sat, Sep 14, 3pm

17,102

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Bristol City A D 0-0

Sat, Sep 21, 3pm

22,885

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Watford (CC R3) A L 2-1

Tues, Sep 24, 7.45pm

8,903

Nordfeldt

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Cabango

John

Byers

Reading H D 1-1

Sat, Sep 28, 3pm

16,036

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Naughton

Fulton 3

Charlton Athletic A W 1-2

Wed, Oct 2, 7.45pm

15,741

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Naughton

Fulton

Stoke City H L 1-2

Sat, Oct 5, 3pm

16,612

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Naughton 1

Fulton 2

Barnsley A D 1-1

Sat, Oct 19, 3pm

12,424

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon 1

Bidwell

Carroll

Brentford H L 0-3

Tues, Oct 22, 7.45pm

15,875

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton 1

Cardiff City H W 1-0

Sun, Oct 27, 12pm

20,270

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot ●

Bidwell

Byers

Wigan Athletic A W 1-2

Sat, Nov 2, 12.30pm

9,080

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot

Bidwell

Byers

Sheffield Weds A D 2-2

Sat, Nov 9, 3pm

23,073

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot ●

Bidwell

Byers

Millwall H L 0-1

Sat, Nov 23, 3pm

16,840

Woodman

Naughton

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot

Bidwell

Byers

Huddersfield Town A D 1-1

Tues, Nov 26, 7.45pm

20,062

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn 1

Wilmot

Bidwell

Fulton ●

Fulham H L 1-2

Fri, Nov 29, 7.45pm

16,024

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot

Naughton

Fulton 2

West Brom A L 5-1

Sun, Dec 8, 12pm

22,927

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot

Naughton

Fulton

Blackburn Rovers H D 1-1

Wed, Dec 11, 7.45pm

14,162

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Cabango

Bidwell

Carroll

Middlesbrough H W 3-1

Sat, Dec 14, 3pm

14,625

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Cabango

Bidwell

Byers 1

Luton Town A W 0-1

Sat, Dec 21, 3pm

10,062

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn

Wilmot

Bidwell

Byers

Brentford A L 3-1

Thu, Dec 26, 3pm

11,848

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Wilmot

Bidwell

Byers 3

Barnsley H D 0-0

Sun, Dec 29, 3pm

17,097

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Wilmot

Bidwell

Fulton

Charlton Athletic H W 1-0

Thu, Jan 2, 7.45pm

15,352

Woodman

Roberts

v.d.Hoorn 1

Cabango

Naughton

Byers

QPR (FA R3) A L 5-1

Sun, Jan 5, 2.01pm

6,712

Nordfeldt

Roberts

Cooper

Bidwell

John

Fulton

Cardiff City A D 0-0

Sun, Jan 12, 12pm

28,529

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Wilmot

Naughton

Byers

Wigan Athletic H W 2-1

Sat, Jan 18, 3pm

15,659

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Wilmot

Naughton

Byers 1

Stoke City A L 2-0

Sat, Jan 25, 3pm

22,593

Woodman

Roberts 1

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell 3

Byers 2

Preston North End A D 1-1

Sat, Feb 1, 3pm

12,502

Woodman

Naughton

Guehi

Rodon

Bidwell

Byers 1

Derby County H L 2-3

Sat, Feb 8, 3pm

16,230

Woodman

Roberts

Guehi

Rodon

Naughton ●

Byers 1

QPR H D 0-0

Tues, Feb 11, 7.45pm

14,778

Woodman

Roberts

Guehi

Rodon

Naughton

Gallagher Fulton 1

Hull City A D 4-4

Fri, Feb 14, 7.45pm

9,757

Woodman

Naughton ●

Guehi

Wilmot

Bidwell

Huddersfield Town H W 3-1

Sat, Feb 22, 3pm

15,148

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton ● 2

Fulham A L 1-0

Weds, Feb 26, 7.45pm

17,626

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton 2

Blackburn Rovers A D 2-2

Sat, Feb 29, 3pm

13,099

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

West Brom H D 0-0

Sat, Mar 7, 3pm

16,788

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Rodon

Bidwell

Fulton

Middlesbrough A W 0-3

Sat, Jun 20, 12.30pm

N/A

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Wilmot

Bidwell

Fulton 2

Luton Town H L 0-1

Sat, Jun 27, 12.30pm

N/A

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango 3

Wilmot

Bidwell

Fulton 2

Millwall A D 1-1

Tues, Jun 30, 5pm

N/A

Woodman

Naughton

Cabango

Wilmot 2

Bidwell

Byers

Sheffield Weds H

Sun, Jul 5, 12pm

Birmingham City A

Wed, Jul 8, 6pm

Leeds United H

Sun, Jul 12, 1.30pm

Nottingham Forest A

Wed, Jul 15, 6pm

Bristol City H

Sat, Jul 18, 3pm

Reading A

Wed, Jul 22, TBC

2

Sent off =

CC = Carabao Cup

FA = FA Cup

Correct as of July 3, 2020

SUBSTITUTES Grimes C

Dyer 2

Byers 1

Celina

Borja ●

Grimes C

Dyer 1

Celina

Kalulu 2

Borja 3

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Dhanda 2, Byers, Peterson 1, Surridge 3

Dhanda 3

Routledge

McKay 2

Peterson 1

Surridge

Mulder, Cooper, Rushesha, De Boer 3, Garrick 2, A. Ayew 1●●, Cullen

Grimes C

Dyer 1

Celina

Kalulu 2

Borja 3 ●●

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Byers 2 ●, A. Ayew 1, Peterson, Surridge 3

Grimes C

A. Ayew 3

Byers 1

Celina ●

Borja 2 ●

Nordfeldt, Naughton 3, Wilmot, Byers, Kalulu, Garrick 1, Surridge 2 ●

Grimes C

A. Ayew

Celina ● 2

Dhanda

Borja ●

Nordfeldt, Naughton 1 ●, Wilmot, Byers 3, Routledge, Garrick 2, Surridge

Carroll 3

Garrick ● 1

Routledge ●

Peterson ●

Surridge ●●

Nordfeldt, Rushesha 2, Cooper, Evans 3, Dhanda, McKay 1, Cullen

Grimes C

A. Ayew 3

Dhanda 2

Celina

Borja 1

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Byers 3 , Garrick, Routledge 2 ●, Surridge 1

Grimes C

A. Ayew

Celina 1

Routledge 3

Borja 2

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Byers 1, Dyer 3, Peterson, Surridge 2

Grimes C

A. Ayew

Byers 2

Celina

Borja 1

Nordfeldt, Roberts 2, Cabango, Dhanda, Dyer, Routledge, Surridge 1

Grimes C

Dyer 3

Dhanda 1

Peterson 2

Surridge ●

Mulder, Cooper, Carroll, McKay 2, Garrick 3 Routledge 1, Borja

Grimes C

A. Ayew

Byers

Celina 2

Borja 1 ●

Mulder, Wilmot, Carroll 3, Dhanda, Dyer, Garrick 2, Surridge 1

Grimes C

A. Ayew ●

Dhanda 1 ●

Celina 2

Borja

Mulder, Wilmot 2, John, Carroll 1, Routledge, Garrick, Surridge

Grimes C

A. Ayew ●

Dhanda

Celina 3

Borja

Mulder, Bidwell 1, Byers 2, Carroll, Routledge 3, Garrick, Surridge

Grimes C

A. Ayew ●

Byers

Celina

Surridge 2

Nordfeldt, Roberts, Wilmot 1, Routledge, Peterson, Garrick 3, Borja 2

Grimes C

A. Ayew

Dhanda 2

Peterson

Borja 3

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Byers 1, Celina 2, Routledge, Surridge 3

Grimes C

Dyer 1

Celina

Routledge

A. Ayew

Nordfeldt, Roberts, Cabango, Fulton, Peterson, Borja, Surridge 1

Grimes C

Dyer 1 ●

Celina 3

Routledge 2

A. Ayew

Nordfeldt, Roberts 1, Cabango, Fulton 3, Peterson, Borja, Surridge 2 ●

Grimes C

Dyer 1

Celina 2

Routledge 3

A. Ayew ●

Nordfeldt, Roberts 1, Cabango, Fulton 2, Peterson, Borja, Surridge 3

Grimes C

Dyer 2

Celina 3

Routledge 1

A. Ayew

Nordfeldt, Roberts, Cabango, Fulton, Peterson 1, Borja 2, Surridge 3

Grimes C

Ayew

Celina 2

Peterson 3

Borja

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Cabango 1, Byers 2 , McKay, Dhanda, Surridge 3

Grimes C

Ayew

Byers ●

Peterson 1

Surridge 3

Nordfeldt, Bidwell, Cabango, Carroll 2, McKay 1, Celina, Borja 3

3

3

Nordfeldt, Naughton 2, Wilmot, Dhanda, Peterson 1, McKay, B-Richardson

Grimes C

Ayew 3

Byers 2

Peterson 1

Surridge ●

Nordfeldt, Bidwell, Cabango, Carroll, McKay 2, Dyer 1, Kalulu 3

Grimes C

Ayew ●

Byers

Celina 1

Surridge

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Wilmot, Fulton, McKay, Kalulu 1, Borja

Grimes C

Ayew ●●

Dhanda

Nordfeldt, John 3, Naughton, Fulton 1, McKay 2, Kalulu, Borja

Grimes C

Ayew

Carroll

Grimes C

Ayew

Carroll 1

Grimes C

Ayew

Carroll

Celina

Surridge 2

Nordfeldt, John, Roberts, Byers 1, McKay, Routledge 2, Borja

Grimes C

Ayew

Dhanda ●2

Routledge

Borja 3

Nordfeldt, John, Wilmot 1, Fulton 3, McKay, Celina 2, Kalulu

Carroll

Dyer 3

McKay 1

Peterson 2

Kalulu

Mulder, Naughton, Cabango, Byers 2 ●, Dhanda, Celina 1, Borja 3

Grimes C

Routledge

Ayew

Celina

Brewster

Nordfeldt, Bidwell, Guehi, Fulton, Dhanda, Kalulu, Borja

Grimes C

Ayew ●

Gallagher

Celina

Brewster ● 2

Mulder, Bidwell, Guehi, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Routledge 2, Borja

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Celina

Brewster

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Celina

Brewster ●

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Routledge 2

Brewster

Mulder, Bidwell, Wilmot, Fulton, Dyer, Dhanda 1 ●, Cullen 2

Grimes C

Ayew

Dhanda 1

Celina

Brewster

Mulder, Bidwell, Cabango, Fulton, Routledge, Kalulu 1, Cullen

Grimes C

Routledge●2

Gallagher

Celina 3

Ayew

Mulder, Roberts, Cabango, Dyer, Dhanda 1, Garrick 3 ●, Brewster 2 ●

Grimes C

Ayew ●

Gallagher

Kalulu 1

Brewster 3

Mulder, Roberts 3, Wilmot 2, Dhanda, Celina, Garrick 1 ●, Cullen

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Kalulu 1

Brewster

Mulder, Roberts 2, Wilmot, Dhanda, Celina, Garrick 1, Cullen

Grimes C

Ayew ●

Gallagher 2

Garrick

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Kalulu

Grimes C

Ayew ●5

Gallagher 4

Kalulu

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Kalulu 1

Grimes C

Ayew

Gallagher

Dhanda 1

2 1

1

Celina 3

Surridge ●

Celina 3

Borja 2

Nordfeldt, Cooper, Naughton 3, Fulton 1, McKay, Kalulu, Routledge 2

Celina

Surridge 2

Nordfeldt, Naughton, Fulton, McKay 3, Routledge, Kalulu 1, Borja 2

1

Mulder, Rodon 1, Wilmot, Fulton, Dhanda 2, Routledge, Borja 3 2

Mulder, Cabango, Wilmot, Fulton 1, Routledge, Dhanda, Cullen 2

Brewster ●

Mulder, Roberts 1, Wilmot 2, Dhanda, Celina, Kalulu, Cullen

1

Brewster

Mulder, Roberts, Wilmot, Dhanda, Dyer 1, Cullen

1

Brewster ●●3

Mulder, Naughton, Guehi, Byers 2, Dhanda 3, Dyer, Routledge 3, Garrick 1, Celina 3

Brewster

Mulder, Naughton, Guehi, Rodon, Byers 2, Dyer, Routledge 3, Dhanda, Garrick 1

Brewster

Mulder, Roberts, Guehi 2, Fulton, Dyer, Routledge, Celina 1, Kalulu, Cullen

19-20 SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE Pos 1

Team Leeds United

UPCOMING FIXTURES

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

40

22

9

9

60

33

27

75

2

West Bromwich Albion

40

20

14

6

67

38

29

74

3

Brentford

40

20

9

11

70

33

37

69

4

Nottingham Forest

40

18

13

9

53

40

13

67

5

Fulham

40

19

10

11

54

44

10

67

6

Cardiff City

40

15

16

9

57

51

6

61

7

Derby County

40

16

12

12

55

52

3

60

8

Millwall

41

14

17

10

48

44

4

59

Swansea City

40

14

15

11

50

47

3

57

10

9

Preston North End

40

16

9

15

52

50

2

57

11

Blackburn Rovers

40

15

11

14

55

50

5

56

12

Bristol City

40

15

10

15

53

59

-6

55

13

Sheffield Wednesday

40

14

10

16

49

54

-5

52

14

Wigan Athletic

40

13

11

16

45

50

-5

50

15

Queens Park Rangers

40

14

8

18

59

66

-7

50

16

Reading

40

13

10

17

48

48

0

49

17

Birmingham City

40

12

13

15

51

63

-12

49

18

Charlton Athletic

41

12

10

19

46

55

-9

46

19

Hull City

40

12

9

19

54

68

-14

45

20

Huddersfield Town

40

12

9

19

49

63

-14

45

21

Middlesbrough

40

10

14

16

40

52

-12

44

22

Stoke City

40

12

7

21

50

61

-11

43

23

Barnsley

40

10

11

19

45

62

-17

41

24

Luton Town

40

11

7

22

46

73

-27

40

social distancing

Birmingham City (A) Wednesday, July 8, 6pm Leeds United (H) Sunday, July 12, 1.30pm Nottingham Forest (A) Wednesday, July 15, 6pm Bristol City (H) Saturday, July 18, 3pm Reading (A) Wednesday, July 22, TBC

Correct as of July 3, 2020

equipment sanitisation 1

fully contactless

2

digital hiredesk now open

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3

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

NEXT UP AT HOME OPPOSITION Leeds United

DATE

KICK-OFF TIME

Sunday, July 12

1.30pm

39 MEETINGS

ABOUT THE OPPOSITION Top of the table and six points clear of thirdplaced Brentford, Leeds hope this is the year they finally return to the Premier League.

It is 16 years since the Whites last appeared in the top flight, and they will fancy their chances of ending that wait heading into the final six games.

However, their recent away form will encourage the Swans, having tasted victory just twice in eight games away from Elland Road.

12

After narrowly missing out in the play-offs last year, Marcelo Bielsa will be desperate to secure promotion this time around and add it to his already impressive CV.

SWANS

20 7 LEEDS UNITED

DRAWS

SWANSEA CITY 2 LEEDS UNITED 2 AUGUST 21, 2019 The Swans were pegged back twice as they shared the spoils with Leeds at the Liberty.

Oli McBurnie scored both goals against his home-city club, but it wasn't enough to ensure victory in a thrilling encounter in SA1.

The striker poked home the opener after 24 minutes, only for Kemar Roofe to level before the break.

Graham Potter's side were full of energy and creativity, and they were back ahead in the 51st minute when McBurnie nodded in from Martin Olsson's cross.

But former Swan Pablo Hernandez ensured a point for the visitors as he guided home Patrick Bamford's 79th-minute cross.

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SWANSEA CITY XI:

Erwin Mulder; Kyle Naughton (Bersant Celina, 66), Mike van der Hoorn (Cameron Carter-Vickers, ht), Joe Rodon, Connor Roberts; Matt Grimes, Leroy Fer (capt); Wayne Routledge, Barrie McKay, Nathan Dyer (Jefferson Montero, 63); Oli McBurnie.

LEEDS UNITED XI:

Cameron Dawson; Tom Lees (capt), Daniel Pudil, Jordan Thorniley, Ashley Baker; Joey Pelupessy, Josh Onomah (Marco Matias, ht), Morgan Fox (Steven Fletcher, 80), Adam Reach; Lucas Joao, Atdhe Nuhiu.

SWANS v SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

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TEAMS SWANS vTHE SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

SWANSEA CITY HEAD COACH: STEVE COOPER

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY MANAGER: GARRY MONK

XI SB GS 2 4 5 6 8 10 12 15 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 32 33 41 44

XI SB GS

Marc Guéhi Joe Rodon Mike van der Hoorn Jay Fulton Matt Grimes Bersant Celina Nathan Dyer Wayne Routledge Aldo Kalulu Rhian Brewster Ben Wilmot Yan Dhanda André Ayew Connor Roberts Jake Bidwell Erwin Mulder Kyle Naughton Freddie Woodman George Byers Liam Cullen Conor Gallagher Jordon Garrick Ben Cabango

Keiren Westwood Liam Palmer Joost van Aken Kieran Lee Jordan Rhodes Kadeem Harris Joey Pelupessy Barry Bannan Julian Borner Jacob Murphy Tom Lees Atdhe Nuhiu Connor Wickham Adam Reach Massimo Luongo Moses Odubajo Cameron Dawson Dominic Iorfa Joe Wildsmith Alex Hunt Paul Jones Alessio Da Cruz Matt Penney Osaze Urhoghide Josh Windass

THE MATCH OFFICIALS

REFEREE: STEPHEN MARTIN ASSISTANT REFEREES: MARK RUSSELL AND MARK POTTAGE FOURTH OFFICIAL: CHRISTOPHER SARGINSON OFFICIAL MAIN SPONSORS

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