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LEAVING - BUT WE HOPE YOU GO UP 20-06-2007

Evening Post Departing duo Bayo Akinfenwa and Izzy Iriekpen have wished Swansea City well next season -despite their sour exits from the club.Akinfenwa and Iriekpen have aimed swipes at the club's hierarchy over the way new contract negotiations were handled after quitting the Liberty Stadium. But both are keen to stress that they will be keeping fingers crossed for Swansea success in 2007-8. "It looks like I'll be joining another club in League One, and I hope whoever I'm playing for finishes top with Swansea second next season," said Akinfenwa, a long-time target for Gillingham. "The fans at Swansea are second to none and I want them to know that they made my time there great. "I made so many friends among the players and the supporters - and the number of well-wishers who got in touch when I broke my leg was unbelievable. "I want them to know I'm thankful for that. I'm just sad that getting stretchered off against Scunthorpe is the last thing I did for the club when I was just beginning to feel like I would score every time I went onto the pitch. "I guess I'm going to be coming back to the Liberty Stadium next season and going into the away dressing room, which is going to be strange." Iriekpen probably won't be back on his old patch too soon - barring a visit in a cup - as he seems set to join Championship new boys Scunthorpe. "I'm moving up a division myself, and I genuinely hope Swansea get there as well next season," he said. "It's a sad day for me because I've been at the club for four years and I've enjoyed every minute of it. I'd like to thank the fans for all the support they've given me and I hope they get the success they deserve."

'WE NEVER CAME CLOSE' 20-06-2007

Evening Post - Gareth Vincent Bayo Akinfenwa and Izzy Iriekpen fired parting shots at Swansea City today after quitting the Liberty Stadium. Striker Akinfenwa and centre-back Iriekpen both took a swipe at the way negotiations over contract offers were handled as they said their goodbyes. But there was better news of club skipper Garry Monk, who has agreed to sign a new deal, while a decision over Kristian O'Leary's future has been delayed as he is currently away on holiday. Iriekpen has been critical of the club's stance since the end of last season. And as he confirmed his exit last night, the 25-year-old told the Evening Post: "It's a disappointing and sad end to my time at Swansea. "People are quick to jump on a player's back at a time like this and say he hasn't got any loyalty. "But what about the service players give to clubs? Look at Bayo Akinfenwa. He broke his leg playing for Swansea. "I think it's sad that the club put the kind of offers in front of us they did after what we gave them. Unfortunately they didn't offer me what I wanted and now I have to move on. "We never really came close to agreeing, and to be honest I don't think the club really wanted to." Akinfenwa echoed Iriekpen's sentiments, claiming Swansea showed little sign that they wanted him to stay. "There was no negotiating," said the powerhouse frontman, who is poised to sign for a rival League One club. It was a case of one offer and that was it, and I felt my offer was a bit of a slap in the face. I didn't feel appreciated. "I've said all along that I wanted to stay at Swansea and I felt I'd done enough to be offered what other clubs were offering me. I'd probably have accepted a little bit less to stay, but Swansea weren't budging. "I was willing to compromise. I was willing to meet halfway and I accepted that my new contract wouldn't kick in until I was fit. "I thought that would be the clincher, but it seems Swansea felt I was dispensable and, having spoken to the other five lads who were out of contract, I think they all felt the same. "Nobody liked the way things were handled." Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins was unwilling to be drawn into a slanging match with Swansea?s two departing stars, but defended the club?s take-it-or-leave-it policy on offers. ?I?m not going to speak about specific players, but generally the club have done what we felt was right,? he said. ?It?s a situation where you can?t win. We have got to protect the club?s interests and the players of course look after themselves. ?But personal feelings don?t come into it. You don?t look at individuals, you just look to do what?s right for the club. That?s the nature of contract talks. ?We expected Bayo and Izzy to turn down the offers and we expect them to take up contracts at other clubs very soon. ?We have moved on tremendously in the last few years and we thank them for the part they have played, but we now just shake hands and wish them all the best. ?It?s very rare in modern football that players stay at one club for three years or more.? Monk, meanwhile, is expected to put pen to paper on a new one-year contract ? with a further 12 months if he makes 25 appearances ? in the next 48 hours. ?Anybody who knows me knows I never wanted to leave and I?m delighted to be staying,? Monk said. ?There are a couple of tiny things to sort out, but I hope to sign in the next day or two.? The future of O?Leary ? offered a three-year contract by Cheltenham ? may not be settled for another week. ?To be fair to Garry, he has shown his commitment and willingness to stay all along and everything should be sorted with him in the next day or so,? Jenkins added. ?As for Kris, we felt it was right to give him a little more time given his attachment to the club and the fact that it?s his testimonial year. ?We?ll talk things through with him when he returns from holiday, but I?m not sure what he?ll do. I think his heart is with us, but it?s in the balance because he has been offered a very, very good contract somewhere else so he has to consider what?s best for him and his family.? Jenkins is now predicting a period of busy transfer activity before pre-season training starts next week. ?There are quite a few players to come in, and now we know where we are we can hopefully push on,? he said.

Angry Bayo slams Swans 20-06-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail A SHELL-SHOCKED Adebayo Akinfenwa last night lashed out at Swansea City, insisting, “They forced me out of the club!” The 25-year-old striker admitted he was “sad and upset” after his two years at the Liberty Stadium came to an end yesterday when he failed to agree a new contract. Akinfenwa joined Izzy Iriekpen on his way out of the club, with the defender also unable to reach terms ahead of yesterday’s deadline. Of the other two members of the “gang of four” out-of-contract Swans stars, club captain Garry Monk was set last night to sign a new deal. The Swans’ longest-serving player, Kris O’Leary, has been given another week to decide on his future as he is currently on holiday. But it is the acrimonious departure of Akinfenwa, a firm favourite at the Liberty, which will come as the biggest blow to many Swans supporters. Even though often overlooked by former manager Kenny Jackett, many fans felt ‘Bayo’ should have been leading the Swansea line ahead of £300,000 signing Rory Fallon. Now the frontman is looking for a new club and has been left none too pleased with the way Swans boss Roberto Martinez and club chairman Huw Jenkins have treated him. “I’m shocked, devastated to be honest, I so much wanted to stay at Swansea,” said Akinfenwa, who scored 21 goals in 50 starts at the Liberty. “I didn’t even feel like I had a choice in the end. I felt like I was being forced out even though I didn’t want to go.” Akinfewa and Iriekpen had both expressed their unhappiness at the one-year deals all four out-of-contract players had been offered. Iriekpen branded the whole thing an “insult” while Akinfenwa said the club refused even to negotiate on the matter. “I tried to go half-way to meet them, but they wouldn’t even come to meet me,” said Akinfenwa. “It was like, there’s the deal, take it or leave it. I felt so under-valued, like I wasn’t worth anything to them. “It wasn’t even about figures, it all seemed to show a lack of respect. “I’d given two years at Swansea, worked as hard as I could and in the end none of that felt as if it had been appreciated at all. “It’s not like me, but I’m so angry about the way I’ve been treated.” But Akinfenwa said the one thing he would take away with him from his time at the Liberty Stadium was his admiration for the Swans supporters. And he said he was sad that the last time the Swansea faithful had seen him, he was being stretchered off after breaking his leg against Scunthorpe back in February. “I’m a London boy, but Swansea had very much become my second home,” said Akinfenwa. “The Swansea supporters have always been brilliant to me. They’ve supported me through the good times and the bad. “I will take them away in my heart with me and will never forget them. “I’m upset the last time they saw me I was being stretchered off, I hoped to come back and reward them for staying with me, but I can’t do that now.” Looking to the future, Akinfenwa, who joined Swansea from Torquay, said it now looked almost certain he would be joining one of the Swans’ rivals in League One. And he expects to be back playing following his injury as early as the start of next season. “I’ve had offers, I had offers a month ago, but wanted to stay at Swansea,” added Akinfenwa. “It looks pretty certain I will be going to a League One club. “The idea of going into the away dressing room at the Liberty would be strange and not something I would look forward to. “But I don’t want to have any animosity. For the sake of the fans I hope Swansea finish second next season behind whichever club I join.” If he had remained at Swansea Akinfenwa might have seen his chances limited nest season, as the club discover next month whether they can get a work permit for Trinidad and Tobago international Jason Scotland. The Swans have already agreed terms with the striker and his current club St Johnstone ahead of a potential move. Iriekpen, meanwhile, has already spoken to Scunthorpe about a possible deal, whilst O’Leary, should he decide not to stay, has also received a three-year offer from League One side Cheltenham Town. A statement issued on Swansea’s official website commented on the on-going O’Leary situation, whilst thanking Akinfenwa and Iriekpen for their services. “We are in daily contact with Kris and felt it right and proper that Kris be given the time to make this important decision,” said the statement “Kris has devoted his entire career to the Swans and with this also being his testimonial year it was felt in nobody's best interest to rush to a decision at this time. “The club would like to place on record their sincere appreciation for the part played by Izzy in the club's revival from League Two strugglers to Championship contenders during his time at the club. “Similarly, Bayo has played a key role in the club's success during his two-year stay which coincided with the exciting times generated by the opening of the Liberty Stadium.”

Scunthorpe sign defender Iriekpen 20-06-2007

BBCi Izzy Iriekpen leaves Swansea after four years at the club Scunthorpe United have completed the signing of defender Izzy Iriekpen from Swansea City. The 25-year-old was out of contract at the Liberty Stadium after turning down the offer of a new one-year deal with the Swans he described as "an insult". Iriekpen signed a two-year contract, with the option of a third year, at Glanford Park on Tuesday morning. He started his career with West Ham, but after loans at Leyton Orient and Cambridge he moved to Swansea in 2003. The player made 137 appearances for the south Wales club, scoring eight goals including two in his final match.

Akinfenwa & Iriekpen leave Swans 19-06-2007

BBC Adebayo Akinfenwa and Izzy Iriekpen have left Swansea City after rejecting new contract offers. Both were unhappy with the one-year deals put on the table, but Swansea refused to negotiate with the pair. Defender Iriekpen has already spoken to Scunthorpe over a proposed move, while striker Akinfenwa has attracted interest from a Championship club. Garry Monk has told BBC Sport he will sign a new deal, while Kris O'Leary has been given another week to decide. Monk and O'Leary are also out of contract at the Liberty Stadium and have been offered the same one-year deals that Akinfenwa and Iriekpen rejected. O'Leary, the longest serving player in the current Swansea squad, has also received a three-year offer from League One side Cheltenham Town. A statement on the Swansea website said: "Talks are ongoing with Kris O'Leary and are expected to be concluded in the next seven days. "The club were happy to agree to this extension with Kris as he is currently out of the country. "We are in daily contact with Kris, and felt it right and proper that Kris be given the time to make this important decision. "Kris has devoted his entire career to the Swans and with this also being his testimonial year it was felt in nobody's best interests to rush to a decision at this time." Akinfenwa and Iriekpen, both 25, had already hinted they were moving on after expressing their disappointment by the length of the deals on offer. Iriekpen branded his offer "an insult" while Akinfenwa said he felt "unappreciated". Swansea had given them until 19 June to make up their minds. The offers have now been withdrawn and the players are free to move on. "The club would like to place on record their sincere appreciation for the part played by Izzy in the club's revival from League Two strugglers to Championship contenders during his time at the club," said the club statement. "Similarly, Bayo has played a key role in the club's success during his two-year stay which coincided with the exciting times generated by the opening of the Liberty Stadium."

Departures would test Martinez 19-06-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY manager Roberto Martinez has been told he must sign top quality replacements if the “Gang of Four” leave the Liberty Stadium today. Club captain Garry Monk, striker Adebayo Akinfenwa, defender Izzy Iriekpen and veteran midfielder Kris O’Leary have until today to ink new deals or see the club withdraw their offers. The situation has dragged on since the end of the season and former Swans boss Colin Addison has expressed his surprise that the discontented quartet had only been offered one-year contracts. All four could now end their Swansea careers today and Addison believes if that happens then rookie boss Martinez will be tested to the limit. Addison, who had six months in charge of the Swans during the 2001-02 season, said the pressure is very much on Martinez to deliver promotion this campaign. “Look at the four players and you can understand why there’s disappointment at the length of the contracts on the table,” said Addison, now a media pundit covering the Welsh football scene. “Garry Monk is a very big player for the club – the captain, for goodness sake – and he was hugely missed last season after his awful injury at Scunthorpe. “But though he’s a very good player it’s not just his play. It’s his experience and I think that is so important for Swansea. He’s got the respect of the players around him too. “He’s very knowledgeable within the game and he’s a talker. You don’t get too many of those and that’s what the Swans are going to need to be successful.” Addison also insisted popular striker Akinfenwa should not be allowed to walk away from Swansea. The 25-year-old, who is recovering from a broken leg, revealed in the Western Mail last week there had already been interest in securing his services from two Championship clubs, but that he was keen to stay at the Liberty. But that appeared a remote prospect last night when he confirmed, “As it stands it looks like I won’t be at Swansea next season. “I’ve got to feel like I’m appreciated. At the moment I don’t feel like I’m appreciated at Swansea. I’ve talked to my family and agent and I think their offer shows a lack of appreciation. “I’ve tried to meet Swansea half way but I’ve just hit a brick wall.” But a dismayed Addison said, “For me, you don’t let a striker like Bayo out of your clutches, as people who can find the net are in such big demand in all divisions. “With Bayo it’s not the goals as such, but the chances and space he creates for others. “He’s very good at leading the line and it doesn’t surprise me other clubs may be sniffing around to try and get him.” Iriekpen has already expressed his disappointment at only being offered a one-year deal and Addison said he could understand the player’s displeasure. The 25-year-old Londoner is attracting interest from Championship new boys Scunthorpe, with Iron boss Nigel Adkins keen to tempt him north. “Izzy is a player who can bring more pace into the team at the back and he can certainly head the ball,” said Adkins. “He is a young player who can only benefit by experience. He already has the experience of being at a Premiership club, having been brought through the system at West Ham.” With Leeds also keen to sign him, Iriekpen seems certain to leave Swansea – but again Addison reckons this would be a mistake. “OK, Izzy has his moments, those lapses in concentration,” said Addison. “But he’s not done bad for the Swans and I believe is worth a longer contract. “You can understand the disappointment. These are players in their mid-to-late 20s, they want to know where they stand and where their careers are going.” Port Talbot-born O’Leary has been with Swansea since he was a trainee and has made more than 300 appearances in defence and midfield. But the 29-year-old has stalled over a 12-month deal while League One rivals Cheltenham Town have offered greater security in the shape of a three-year contract. Addison, who managed the player during his time at the club, said O’Leary was “Mr Swansea City” but realised why a one-year deal had been offered in his case. “Kris is a great lad, he was smashing for me, a real pro,” he said. “But in the end there’s little room for sentiment in the modern game. “I can’t see him playing next season. You look at the middle of the park and the Swans are all right there, and I can’t see him slotting into defence. “So I can see the idea of offering a year, but Roberto can’t be sentimental about things. He’s trying to build a future at the club, after all.” When Martinez succeeded Kenny Jackett in the Liberty hotseat in February many were concerned at his lack of managerial experience. But an excellent end to the season – the Swans were only edged out of the play-off picture by a final day defeat to Blackpool – showed the Spaniard had found his feet very quickly. But Addison warned the pressure was now on for Martinez, with even his excellent recent record counting for little when the new campaign gets under-way on August 11. “There was surprise when Roberto got the job, but as they say, you’ve got to start somewhere,” said Addison. “He had a storming end to the season, but the problem you always find is that the past is soon forgotten in football. People will expect big things from the side next season. “Roberto will be stamping his authority on the squad and I’d expect him to bring in a few more new faces before the season starts. “Everything is in place at Swansea now and no one will be expecting just an average season this time around. “After going close in previous seasons, the Swansea supporters will be looking for it to be third time lucky this time. Nothing else will do.” The Swansea City 'Gang of Four' ADEBAYO AKINFENWA Age: 25 Position: Forward Signed: July 2005 Appearances: 50 + 20 sub Goals: 21 GARRY MONK Age: 28 Position: Defender Signed: June 2004 Appearances: 85 Goals: 2 KRIS O’LEARY Age: 29 Position: Midfielder Signed: August 1995 Appearances: 271 + 42 sub Goals: 11 IZZY IRIEKPEN Age: 25 Position: Defender Signed: August 2003 Appearances: 132 + 5 sub Goals: 8

CHAIRMAN RULES OUT BOYD MOVE 19-06-2007

Evening Post Huw Jenkins has played down talk of a move for Luton's Adam Boyd - but insists Swansea City have a string of alternatives should they miss out on Darryl Duffy.Swansea's chairman has held talks with his new opposite number at Hull City, Paul Duffen, over Duffy's situation. But Jenkins has stressed that Swansea will not make the mistake of pinning all their hopes on the former Scottish Under-21 international. Boss Roberto Martinez has identified a number of candidates to bolster his forward line - although former Hartlepool man Boyd does not appear to be one of them. "Adam Boyd is a player who is being touted around," said Jenkins. "For whatever reason things haven't worked out too well for him at Luton, but it would be wrong to say he is someone we are chasing. "We have talked about him because he is being touted around, but that's as far as it has gone. "It's important, though, that our supporters are aware that we have got a number of strikers in mind. "It's not just Darryl Duffy we're looking at. We are never going to go down the route of having only one or two players to choose from, which is a mistake we have made in the past. "We have watched a lot of games and a lot of players and as a result we have got a number of options." Nevertheless Swansea would love to land Duffy on a permanent basis after his highly successful loan spell at the back end of last season. The chances of that happening appeared slim after former Hull chairman Adam Pearson slapped an unrealistic £500,000 price tag on the 23-year-old's head earlier this summer. But Duffen's arrival at the KC Stadium last week has offered Swansea fresh hope. "The new Hull chairman has phoned me and we've had a chat about it," Jenkins added. "He got in touch because he knows we had been discussing Darryl's situation. "Darryl had a good spell with us at the end of last season and we know he would fit in quickly here, which is important. But the ball remains in Hull's court. "We found it hard to understand how a club could sign a player (for £250,000) and then argue that his valuation should go up when he hasn't really played for them. "I think now Darryl's future will depend on their manager. He (Phil Brown) will have to decide what players they want to bring in and who they need to move out." Hull have been strongly linked with wantaway Colchester striker Jamie Cureton, with a £250,000 offer reportedly rejected last week. But they could offload another forward this week, with Stoke set to pay a sizeable fee for Jon Parkin. "We will have to see what happens this week and then next week I think everything should become clearer," Jenkins added. "We're having to take our time, but then that's usually the case in football unless you're prepared to chuck money at things and that's something we're not going to do." Swansea's transfer plans will soon be clearer by with decisions on the futures of their four out-of-contract players expected today. Garry Monk, Izzy Iriekpen, Bayo Akinfenwa and Kristian O'Leary were all due to give answers to Jenkins, with the offers becoming null and void as of tomorrow.

BAYO: I MAY HAVE TO GO 18-06-2007

Evening Post - Michael Reeves Bayo Akinfenwa is on the verge of quitting Swansea City.The powerhouse striker admits it is unlikely he will be able to agree a new deal at the Liberty Stadium. And with three offers on the table elsewhere, the 25-year-old is hoping to sort his future out soon. "At the moment I would say it is unlikely I'm staying," Akinfenwa told the Evening Post. "There has been no room for negotiation and that is something I'm not happy about. "But it is not Tuesday yet and things may change." The former Torquay United striker is one of four out-of-contract players who have until tomorrow to let Swansea know whether they will sign the new deals on offer or reject them. And with club chairman Huw Jenkins insisting these are take-it-or-leave-it offers, it seems unlikely there will be any last-minute talks. Akinfenwa says he has had interest from one Championship side and three League One outfits. "They haven't even tried to meet me halfway," added Akinfenwa, who is recovering from a broken leg. "I have asked them to match the offers I have had. "I'm disappointed that we haven't been able to work things out. "I wanted to stay and if we could have agreed a deal, it would have only kicked in when I was fully fit." Akinfenwa could be joined through the exit door by skipper Garry Monk, Kristian O'Leary and Izzy Iriekpen. Iriekpen has been in talks with Championship side Scunthorpe United and newly-relegated Leeds United. Meanwhile, O'Leary is understood to have been offered a three-year contract from Cheltenham Town. Akinfenwa joined Swansea two years ago from Torquay in a £110,000 deal. The 25-year-old quickly struck up a good relationship with both the fans and strike-partner Lee Trundle. Akinfenwa remains hopeful he will be able to start the new season. "I have been given the all-clear to step up my rehabilitation by the surgeon," he said. "I was meeting with the Swansea physio (Richie Evans) today to continue my work. "My aim is to be fit for the first game of the season - and if not then by the second."

Roberto 48-hour deadline for Gang of Four 18-06-2007

Wales On Sunday SWANSEA CITY will insist it’s deal or no deal inside the next 48 hours as they await answers from their contract rebels, writes CHRIS WATHAN. A gang of four Swansea stars have so far refused to sign new contracts offered by Liberty Stadium chiefs a month ago – and have until Tuesday to accept. If they don’t, captain Garry Monk, striker Bayo Akinfenwa, defender Izzy Iriekpen and longest serving player Kris O’Leary will all see the offers ripped up and told to find new clubs. Swansea boss Roberto Martinez has publicly stated he wants all four to stay with the club, but the players are all known to be unhappy with the length of the deals in front of them. Each of them has been offered a 12-month stay – with a second year to follow should they make 25 appearances in the season. But with security and longer contracts elsewhere, Swansea could find themselves four players lighter come Tuesday. Still, boss Martinez has backed the idea of performance-related deals as he looks to introduce commission-style contracts throughout his squad. Dutch midfielder Ferrie Bodde is also thought to have agreed a similar deal and manager Martinez said: “They can determine their own careers by working hard to achieve things for themselves and for Swansea City. “The better they play, the better contracts they will earn and the more successful they are on the pitch more rewards they get. There are many players here who can play a big part in my team and in time get their own rewards with their contracts and the dreams they want to achieve here. “It’s something me and the board have talked about and we feel it is the right way ahead. “Swansea City are in League One but everything is geared up to improve and be in a higher division and every single player here should realise that aim – the contract issue reflects that as well.” Having suffered with players out through long-term injuries, Swansea City chiefs are also thought to be pushing the issue as a way of a safeguard. Monk, Darren Way, Owain Tudur Jones have all been victims of lengthy spells on the sidelines while Akinfenwa is still recovering from breaking his leg in February. Yet Akinfenwa last night insisted that should have nothing to do with the new contract and he hinted he could be one of the four to end his Swans days come D-Day this week. “Talks haven’t gone the way I wanted,” he said. “Disrespectful is too strong a word to use, but I don’t feel appreciated in what has gone on. “But there are aspects of the contract offer that underline the injury I had and I don’t feel those should have been a real factor as I will be fit for the first game of the season. “My heart has always been with the club but things have soured recently so I will be deciding over the weekend whether my future is here. “At the moment I really don’t know, which is a shame because for a long time I wouldn’t even have contemplated playing my football elsewhere.” O’Leary, following his testimonial year with his hometown club, has been offered a three-year deal with Cheltenham Town and could be swayed by a signing-on fee plus longer-term security

Time to dig for victory 18-06-2007

by Neville Southall, Wales On Sunday ROBERTO Martinez wants his Swansea City to play sexy football but their League One promotion bid starts in British football’s most horrible place. No-one likes playing at Oldham Athletic’s Boundary Park and it’s my least favourite ground as it is always bleak. I agree with Martinez that his side have the talent to win promotion to the Championship but the Swans must learn to win ugly when required. Like Cardiff, Swansea have a difficult start against two ambitious sides still hurting after defeats in the last season’s play-offs. OLDHAM ATHLETIC AWAY (Aug 11) followed by the once great NOTTINGHAM FOREST in the first game at The Liberty Stadium (Aug 18) is tough but, conversely, both could suffer a similar play-off hangover to the one that befell Swansea last season. Martinez inspired the Swans to an incredible run-in last season – losing just two of their last dozen games – and they almost snatched a play-off spot. The Spaniard will be keen for that to continue after a summer refresh. Martinez will up his team’s fitness levels to dictate tempos and close down quickly and the latter will be required against Forest’s new-signing Neil Lennon who can still, even at 35, run games with his vision, knowledge and distribution skills. Fitness levels must be high to win promotion in League One and by the time the Welshmen travel to LEEDS on September 22, I reckon they should be flying high. Newly-promoted WALSALL AWAY (Aug 25), DONCASTER HOME (Sept 1), CHELTENHAM TOWN AWAY (Sept 8) and CARLISLE HOME (Sept 15) should be straight forward as should BRIGHTON at home (Sept 29). Leeds should bounce straight back to the Championship and Swansea’s trip to Elland Road – their first for 23 years – will give Martinez the chance to make an accurate assessment of how far his side has come. The quality at the disposal of Leeds boss Dennis Wise is remarkable. October starts well for Swansea with SWINDON HOME (2) and trips to LEYTON ORIENT (6) and BOURNEMOUTH (13). Newly-promoted HARTLEPOOL at home (20) and beaten play-off finalists YEOVIL TOWN AWAY (27) will be tough opponents and I think Danny Wilson’s ’Pool could be the surprise package for League One. November is difficult because after GILLINGHAM HOME (3), Swans have two tricky trips to MILLWALL (6) and TRANMERE (24) sandwiched around a home game against HUDDERSFIELD (17). Millwall will do well next season under Willie Donachie, who I know from my Everton days. He’s a very good coach and Millwall will be super-fit. December’s home games against NORTHAMPTON (4), SOUTHEND UNITED (15) and CHELTENHAM on Boxing Day are winnable but LEEDS at The Liberty (29) will be difficult for Martinez. It should though provide a great celebration between the two teams close to John Charles’ heart and a full house. The Severnside derby at BRISTOL ROVERS (8) will be a humdinger while an arduous pre-Christmas trip to CARLISLE (22) is the most unwanted present of all. January starts with SWINDON AWAY on New Year’s Day followed by Dario Gradi-less CREWE HOME (5), LUTON AWAY (12), PORT VALE HOME (19) and back-to-back trips to DONCASTER (26) and FOREST (29) and the Swans could take something from all of them. February is a good month also as OLDHAM come to The Liberty (2), followed by CREWE AWAY (9), WALSALL HOME (12), PORT VALE AWAY (16) and LUTON at home (23). March is the business end of the season when the games come thick and fast but the month couldn’t be tougher. HUDDERSFIELD AWAY (1), both MILLWALL (8) and TRANMERE (11) at home, successive away games at NORTHAMPTON (15) and SOUTHEND (22), BRISTOL ROVERS at home on Easter Monday and at HARTLEPOOL (29). The run-in of BOURNEMOUTH at home (Apr 5), GILLINGHAM AWAY (Apr 12), both YEOVIL (Apr 19) and LEYTON ORIENT (Apr 26) at home and BRIGHTON away (May 3) should hold no fears for Swansea. I expect them to be going full throttle for the play-offs.

Bodde’s debt to Gullit 18-06-2007

by Our Correspondent, Wales On Sunday IT’S not every day you meet your heroes, but Swansea new boy Ferrie Bodde has a permanent reminder of his. In fact, he still bears the scars. It was two years ago when Bodde, in action for home-town team ADO Den Haag, found himself lying in agony after a challenge on Feyenoord striker Dirk Kuyt left him with a sickening ankle injury. But the midfielder soon found comfort from an unlikely source as Dutch icon Ruud Gullit came to his side and helped him through the worst. “It is something I will always remember,” said Bodde as he completed his £50,000 switch to South Wales this week. “I was playing for ADO Den Haag. Kuyt had won the ball and I went to tackle him – I turned left but my ankle didn’t follow. “It happened so quick I hadn’t looked down but I knew it was bad because of the pain. Ruud Gullit was the manager of Feyenoord at the time and he saw the incident straight away. Before I knew it he had jumped over the concourse and ran onto the pitch while the game was still going on. My own coach was still in his dug out but Gullit, one of my heroes, was beside me telling me to look at him and keep looking at him. He didn’t want me to look down because he had obviously seen the leg and knew how bad it was – the ankle was pointing in the wrong direction. “He kept telling me everything would be okay and I would be fine and to have someone like him with you in a moment like that was something I’ll always remember and take with me.” Gullit remembers the incident himself. “Ferrie was standing there after which his ankle turned away from his leg,” said the AC Milan legend. “He looked me right in the eyes when it happened. I went onto the field to hold his hand. He asked me if it was bad and I told him not to look. It was just terrible.” So much so was Gullit’s concern he sent his wishes – and the obligatory fruit – to the hospital where Bodde underwent surgery that same night, a plate being inserted into the broken ankle. And when Bodde was coming round to the news he would be out of the game for as much as ten months, the man who lifted the European Championship trophy for his country was sending him text messages of his support. Unsurprising, then, that Bodde beat the doctors to return to first-team action in half the time and was soon back cementing his reputation as one of Holland’s hard-men. “I’m a hard-worker, so I was always knew I wanted to be back sooner,” said the 25-year-old. “But I also know I’m a strong character and incidents like that help remind you what you can do. “Now I have the chance to show that with Swansea. I think I can prove myself and I think I will enjoy playing here. “In Holland the referees are too quick to give a yellow card with every tackle – I watched Swansea’s game against Blackpool and that wasn’t the case. The style will suit me.” But as you would expect with a man from the land of total football, or even sexy football in the case of Gullit, there’s more than just the physical that excites Bodde. Known for being able to drive attacks forward as well as pick out key passes, Kenny Jackett had been tracking Bodde before Swans successor Martinez moved up the gears to get his man this week. And Swansea’s Spaniard has already left his mark as Bodde explained: “I am excited about his ideas, I like his style of football and his type of playing and what he wants to do. “He is very personal and thinks the group is important which you don’t see a lot of in Holland, where the managers are older and often think they are above the squad. That is not always good. The manager is the boss but he must also talk to the players around him. “I think Martin Jol at Tottenham is the same and he has been a big influence on me. He is from the same area and team as me, as well as his brother Cock. “And whenever they’ve spoken to me when they’ve visited I always make sure I listen because they are always right. It makes you think about football and how simple the game is and hopefully I can prove that at Swansea.”

Bayo hints at Swans exit 16-06-2007

By James Evans, SkySports Swansea City striker Adebayo Akinfenwa admits he may be forced to leave the Liberty Stadium after contract talks stalled this week. Akinfenwa has been given until Tuesday to decide whether to accept the club's offer of a new deal, but remains unhappy after claiming that the Swans have failed to meet him half-way in negotiations. "What will be will be, though negotiations with the club representatives haven't gone the way I would have wanted," he told Skysports.com. "Maybe 'disrespectful' is too strong a word to use, but I don't feel appreciated in what has gone on, and for my own sake I have to be at a club that I know values me and will put faith in me to perform." Akinfenwa had to watch from the sidelines after breaking his leg against Scunthorpe United in February, as Swansea narrowly missed out on a League One play-off spot last term. And the 25-year-old feels that his injury problems have been factored into manager Roberto Martinez's contract offer. "There are aspects of the contract offer that underline the injury I had, and I don't feel those should have been a real factor as I will be fit for the first game of the season," he said. The former Torquay and Doncaster front man revealed that he has had offers from one Championship club and three League One sides. Akinfenwa added: "Obviously there is an opportunity to step up or just to have a new start. "My heart has always been with the club, but things have soured recently so I will be deciding over the weekend whether my future is here. "At the moment I really don't know, which is a shame because for a long time I wouldn't even have contemplated playing my football elsewhere."

MARTINEZ EYEING AUGUST FRIENDLY 15-06-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez has unveiled plans to arrange a home pre-season friendly after the League One fixtures were released.Swansea City will play just one league game at the Liberty Stadium, against Nottingham Forest, throughout August. Now Martinez, whose side go to Oldham on the opening day, will look to arrange a home fixture for August 4 - a week before the season starts. "The fact that we have only one league game at home in August may push me to organise a good friendly at home on the first weekend of the month," said the Swansea boss, whose side start a campaign on the road for the first time since 2001. "That will give all our fans the chance to see the new squad for the new season. "It will give the players that feeling with the fans and will give the fans the chemistry needed with the players. "I would like our supporters to get close to the team before we go to play away at Oldham, so a friendly is something we'll have to look at." After Oldham - the side who pipped Swansea to the final play-off spot in May - and heavyweights Forest, Swansea take on League Two champions Walsall. Martinez's men then face Doncaster, Carlisle and Leeds - three sides who will fancy their promotion chances - in three of their next four fixtures. "We're playing a lot of sides who were pushing for the play-offs last season or who will have high hopes for this year," the Spaniard added. "It's certainly a tricky start." After a gruelling trip to Carlisle on December 22, Swansea host Cheltenham on Boxing Day and then Leeds on December 29. The fixture computer has handed them a relatively short journey to Swindon New Year's Day. The return trip to Forest is on a Tuesday night (January 29), while Easter weekend sees Swansea visit Southend before they host Bristol Rovers. In what looks at this stage a decent run-in, Swansea face Yeovil and Leyton Orient before bringing the curtain down on the season at Brighton on May 3. A handful of fixtures are likely to switched in the next few days because of clashes with Welsh football or rugby internationals, or on police advice.

IRIEKPEN INSISTS: I MAY STILL STAY 15-06-2007

Evening Post IZZY Iriekpen insists he could still stay at Swansea City despite reports that he is close to joining Championship new boys Scunthorpe. Iron boss Nigel Adkins has admitted the central defender is a target amid suggestions he could sign for the Glanford Park club today. But Iriekpen, who has also been linked with Leeds, is yet to make his mind up about what the future holds. "My agent is in talks with a number of clubs," he told the Evening Post. "I have got until June 19 to decide and, of course, I'm still thinking about Swansea. I've been there for the last four years and they have put an offer on the table. "That offer has not changed, though. It's still one year, so we'll have to see what happens." Scunthorpe boss Adkins is in the market for a centre-back after the shock departure of Stephen Foster to Darlington in the wake of Scunthorpe's League One title-winning success. "Izzy is a player who can bring more pace into the team at the back and he can certainly head the ball," he said. Roberto Martinez, meanwhile, has revealed he has replacements in mind should Iriekpen and Swansea's three other out-of-contract stars quit the club. Crunch time is approaching for Iriekpen, Garry Monk, Bayo Akinfenwa and Kristian O'Leary with their contract offers due to be withdrawn next Tuesday. Swansea would be left with holes to fill should the quartet depart, particularly at the back. But Martinez, who remains confident his new-look squad will be finalised by the end of the month, has already earmarked potential new recruits. "Kevin Reeves, Graeme Jones and myself have been working hard to see as many games and as players as we can," said the Swansea manager. "We have done that and we have players in mind, now it's a case of crossing those bridges when we come to them. "I?m not going to talk about specific players ? the four out-of-contract lads deserve my respect and my appreciation. "But if it comes to the June 19 deadline and we need to replace them, we will not be panicking. "We have done a lot of hard work over the last six or seven weeks and we have always had players in mind." Should Iriekpen and Monk leave, Swansea's only central defensive options would be Dennis Lawrence, Steve Watt, Kevin Austin and Alan Tate. The departure of Akinfenwa would leave Martinez without a targetman, while O'Leary's exit would be perhaps the easiest to cope with given the Spaniard's multiple midfield options. Even if they all agreed to stay, he would still want to recruit a goalkeeper, at least one pacy wide player and perhaps another striker before pre-season starts on June 29. "After the deadline for the out-of-contract players to get back to us there will be 10 days for us to try to close everything," Martinez added. "All the work has been done and it's just a matter of making final decisions. There a few areas of the squad we need to improve but, whatever happens, I'm confident things will turn out well for Swansea City."

Swans swoop for Bodde 14-06-2007

Western Mail SWANSEA CITY boss Roberto Martinez last night expressed his relief after beating off late interest to land long-term transfer target Ferrie Bodde. Martinez (pictured below) agreed to pay ADO Den Haag £50,000 for Dutch midfielder Bodde as the Swans finally captured the man they had been tracking for more than a year. The Swans are believed to have first made a move for him during the Kenny Jackett era, but it was successor Martinez who finally secured the signing of the 25-year-old on a two-year deal. Bodde becomes Swansea’s third summer signing – following on from Jason Scotland and Matty Collins – and Martinez revealed how the Welsh side fended off stern competition from the likes of Aberdeen, FC Zurich and Dutch heavyweights Feyenoord to secure the highly-rated midfield man. “We’ve been looking at him for some time and there was a lot of interest so to sign a player with his experience at his age is exciting for us,” said Martinez. “Ferrie is a very hungry player, a very impressive character and a winner. At 25, he is at the best moment of his career and he has already made well over 100 appearances in a very competitive league in Holland. “He is a very aware player tactically and can bring us a lot on a massive pitch like we have at the Liberty Stadium.” Bodde has spent the last four seasons playing in the Dutch top flight, but was keen to make a fresh start following Den Haag’s relegation from the Eredivisie. Having played in the same Holland Under-23 side as Chelsea’s Arjen Robben, Bodde is expected to be a central figure in the Swans’ promotion push next season. So much so that the renowned fierce tackler and ball-winner has even been compared to Manchester United legend Roy Keane. “In Holland, they call him the Dutch Roy Keane,” added Martinez. “He is a player with a fantastic pedigree who wanted to leave Den Haag after their relegation and wants to play in the Premiership over here. “To do that he has decided to come here and try to be successful with us. “Ideally, he will go on to play in the Premiership with Swansea. If not, if he does well enough to earn a move to the Premiership that’s his dream achieved and he will have helped us along the way.” While Bodde settles into his new surroundings, one player who could be on his way out is long-serving player Kris O’Leary. One of four out-of-contract Swans players who have until next Tuesday to decide whether to accept new contract terms, O’Leary is believed to have been offered a three-year deal with Cheltenham Town. The Gloucestershire-based club are keen to clinch the signing after the versatile O’Leary impressed in a short loan spell at Whaddon Road last season. Meanwhile, Martinez will host one of his old clubs in the Carling Cup first round when League One newcomers Walsall visit the Liberty Stadium. Cardiff City have also been handed a home draw in the shape of Brighton, while Wrexham travel to Port Vale. All the ties will be played during the week commencing August 13. Carling Cup first round draw: Wolves v Bradford, Grimsby v Burnley, Rochdale v Stoke, Scunthorpe v Hartlepool, Port Vale v Wrexham, Crewe v Hull, Chester v Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United v Chesterfield, Rotherham v Sheffield Wed, Barnsley v Darlington, Bury v Carlisle, Doncaster v Lincoln, Preston v Morecambe, Stockport v Tranmere, Accrington Stanley v Leicester, Macclesfield v Leeds, Oldham v Mansfield, Blackpool v Huddersfield, Watford v Gillingham, Swindon v Charlton, MK Dons v Ipswich, Southend v Cheltenham, Norwich v Barnet, Shrewsbury v Colchester, Cardiff City v Brighton, Swansea City v Walsall, Brentford v Bristol City, Bristol Rovers v Crystal Palace, West Brom v Bournemouth, Peterborough v Southampton, Hereford v Yeovil, QPR v Leyton Orient, Northampton v Millwall, Dagenham & Redbridge v Luton, Plymouth Argyle v Wycombe Wands, Coventry v Notts County.

Cheltenham make move for O'Leary 14-06-2007

BBCi O'Leary impressed on loan at Cheltenham last season Swansea City's longest-serving player Kris O'Leary has been offered a three year contract by Cheltenham Town. The midfielder, 29, impressed in a loan spell at Wheddon Road last season. O'Leary is one of four out-of-contract Swans players who have until Tuesday to decide whether to accept the new minimum one-year deals offered them. The Swans offers are performance related, with an extension to the year available if players make a certain amount of appearances next season. Garry Monk, Adebayo Akinfenwa and Izzy Iriekpen are the other Swansea players pondering the limited deals. Scunthorpe United have been linked with a move for Iriekpen.

BODDE SNATCHER 14-06-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have completed the signing of the man known as the Dutch Roy Keane.Ferrie Bodde has penned a long-term contract, believed to be at least two years, after Swansea agreed to pay ADO Den Haag £50,000 plus add-ons for the midfielder. And boss Roberto Martinez is thrilled to have landed a player who is heading to Britain with the aim of reaching the Premiership. Bodde, 25 last month, has spent the last four seasons playing in the Dutch top flight, but was keen to move on following Den Haag's relegation in the spring. And Martinez beat off competition from the likes of Aberdeen, FC Zurich and Dutch Eredivisie new-boys VVV-Venlo to secure the highly-rated playmaker. "Ferrie is a very hungry player, a very impressive character and a winner," said Martinez. "In Holland, they call him the Dutch Roy Keane and I know he attracted a lot of interest when he was younger. AZ Alkmaar offered him a five-year deal when he was 21 or 22. "He is a player with a fantastic pedigree who wanted to leave Den Haag after their relegation and wants to play in the Premiership over here. "To do that he has decided to come here and try to be successful with us. "Ideally, he will go on to play in the Premiership with Swansea. If not, if he does well enough to earn a move to the Premiership that's his dream achieved and he will have helped us along the way." Bodde, a long-time target for Swansea, has been watched on a number of occasions by chief scout Kevin Reeves. It is understood the club first made a move for him during the Kenny Jackett era, but it is Martinez who has finally snared a player who is expected to be a central figure next season. "To sign a player with his experience at his age is exciting for us," he added. "At 25 he is at the best moment of his career and he has already made well over 100 appearances in a very competitive league in Holland. "He is a very aware player tactically. He can bring us a lot on a massive pitch like we have at the Liberty Stadium. "He plays in front of the back four. He is very clever off the ball, where he helps other players, and he also starts things off well when he's on the ball. He brings other players into the game." Bodde, who wrapped up his move after passing a medical yesterday afternoon, attempted to play down comparisons to Manchester United great Keane. "It is a compliment and I do like his style," Swansea's third summer recruit said. "But I don't want to be described as Roy Keane because he was a very big player. "I like to pass the ball and play football the way it is meant to be played, but I also like to battle and I'd like to think I play for the team not just myself." Martinez laughed off suggestions that Bodde would provide similar qualities to those he brought during his playing days. He said: "Ferrie is very different from me, but he is a playmaker. He has the experience and the personality to cope with that responsibility." Bodde watched Swansea's 6-3 defeat by Blackpool on the final day of last season. "He saw the size of the club, what we are about and the way we want to play football," Martinez said. Bodde added: "I had goose bumps during the build-up to kick-off. With nearly 20,000 there the atmosphere was fantastic.''

SWANS SET TO MISS OUT ON MULLAN 14-06-2007

Evening Post Swansea City look to have failed in their bid to land ex-Manchester United prospect Jamie Mullan.The 19-year-old winger spent time on trial at the Liberty Stadium at the back end of last season and is thought to have been offered a three-year contract. But amid suggestions Mullan, who has been freed by United, is keener on a move to Leeds than Wales, Roberto Martinez has all but signalled the end of Swansea's interest. "Jamie Mullan is a young player with good potential," Martinez said. "He had a trial with us but he wanted to keep his options open. I think he is waiting on other things and it's unlikely he'll be coming to Swansea. "We had a look at him and as far as I'm concerned it's down to how much the player wants to join us. I don't think he really wants to join us, and we only want players who do." That means Martinez's summer search for at least one natural wide player continues. He is also in the market for a striker and possibly a central defender, depending on what happens with out-of-contract duo Garry Monk and Izzy Iriekpen. But perhaps the most obvious need for strengthening is in goal, where Swansea want some serious competition for Willy Gueret in the wake of Andy Oakes's departure. Martinez has admitted for the first time that out-of-contract Dunfermline stopper Dorus De Vries is a target - but insists he is just one of a number of possible recruits. "Dorus De Vries is someone we have followed and he has just had a very good season," the Swansea manager added. "But we have got a few names on our list at this stage. We are giving ourselves enough options to make sure we sign the right man for what is a key area, and I'm very confident that whatever happens will be good for the club." Fulham are refusing to comment on a report that West Brom have turned down a bid for Wales international midfielder Jason Koumas.

Carling Cup Draw - First Round 14-06-2007

Western Mail Carling Cup first round draw, to be played week commencing August 13: Wolves v Bradford Grimsby v Burnley Rochdale v Stoke Scunthorpe v Hartlepool Port Vale v Wrexham Crewe v Hull Chester v Nottingham Forest Sheffield United v Chesterfield Rotherham v Sheffield Wednesday Barnsley v Darlington Bury v Carlisle Doncaster v Lincoln Preston v Morecambe Stockport v Tranmere Accrington Stanley v Leicester Macclesfield v Leeds Oldham v Mansfield Blackpool v Huddersfield Watford v Gillingham Swindon v Charlton MK Dons v Ipswich Southend v Cheltenham Norwich v Barnet Shrewsbury v Colchester Cardiff v Brighton Swansea v Walsall Brentford v Bristol City Bristol Rovers v Crystal Palace West Brom v Bournemouth Peterborough v Southampton Hereford v Yeovil QPR v Leyton Orient Northampton v Millwall Dagenham & Redbridge v Luton Plymouth v Wycombe Coventry v Notts County

Martinez philosophical over ‘Gang of Four’ 14-06-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail FORMER Swansea City No 2 Kevin Nugent has been appointed youth team manager at Leyton Orient. Nugent took over as Swans caretaker-manager last February after Kenny Jackett left the club and then worked in a scouting capacity following Roberto Martinez’ appointment as manager. But Nugent left Swansea at the end of the season and now returns to his former London club. Martinez, meanwhile, says he understands the position of the club’s ‘Gang of Four’ as the clock ticks down towards deadline day. Club captain Garry Monk, long-serving Kris O’Leary, striker Bayo Akinfenwa and defensive regular Izzy Iriekpen have all been told to sign on the dotted line by next Tuesday or ship out of the Liberty Stadium. The players are said to be unhappy with the length of the contracts on offer which are believed to run for a year, with the chance of a further 12 months depending on appearances. Indeed, earlier this week Iriekpen said he felt “insulted” by the deal the club were putting in front of him. Akinfenwa told the Western Mail last week there was interest from a number of clubs, including two in the Championship. Despite the stand-off, though, Martinez said he hopes the quartet do commit their futures to the Swans. “I’m not disappointed with them. This is all part of the situation we’re in and when you allow people to be out of contract they are going to look at their futures,” said Martinez. “From a football side of things, I would love them all to stay. I’ve spoken to them all and they all realise how important they are to Swansea City.” Martinez, who has been out in his native Spain recently scouting for new talent, said he felt the four players may be getting conflicting advice about the situation. “When you’re out of contract and you have people ringing you to offer this and that it does affect you,” said Martinez. “Everybody’s had a fair offer and it’s about how much they want to be part of the future at Swansea City. “There are a few issues which have been in the press and I don’t think talking about terms in the media is the right thing to do. It doesn’t do anyone any favours.”

CLOCK IS TICKING 12-06-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez has told his out-of-contract stars he still hopes they will stay as the clock ticks down on their Swansea City careers.Skipper Garry Monk, long-serving local lad Kris O'Leary, fans' favourite Bayo Akinfenwa and defensive regular Izzy Iriekpen may all be former Swansea players in eight days' time. The quartet have been offered new deals at the Liberty Stadium, but all are unhappy with the terms and have attracted interest from elsewhere. A stand-off between players and club has developed as a result, but matters must come to a head in the next week as the contract offers will no longer stand after June 19. The delay on decisions has irritated those in the Liberty boardroom, while some fans believe the players' failure to sign indicates a lack of commitment to the cause. But Martinez, whose hands are tied in the transfer market while he waits for answers, insists he has no problem with Monk, O'Leary, Akinfenwa or Iriekpen. "I'm not disappointed with them," said the Swansea boss. "This is all part of the situation we are in and when you allow people to be out of contract, they are going to look at their futures. That's going to happen. "From a football side of things, I would love them all to stay. "I have spoken to them all and they all realise how important they are to Swansea City. "But you need to understand there are other issues. "When you are out of contract and you have people ringing you to offer this and that it does affect you. "They are getting advice - sometimes good and sometimes bad - from the people around them and there are some issues where I cannot really convince someone to make a decision." All four players are thought to be disappointed with the length of contract on the table. It is believed most if not all have been offered only one-year extensions with the possibility of another 12 months depending on appearances. "Everybody has had a fair offer and it's about how much they want to be part of the future at Swansea City,'' Martinez insisted. "Every situation is situation is different and every player has different circumstances, but I don't think there's a problem with the length of contracts. "There are a few issues which have been in the press and I don't think talking about terms in the media is the right thing to do. It doesn't do anyone any favours. "But what I will say is that the majority - not all of them - are at least two-year contracts if they play enough games in the first year." Martinez, who still expects to have his new-look squad finalised by the end of the month, believes decisions on the out-of-contract four may come before next week's deadline. "After June 19 the offers are no longer on the table," he said. "We are communicating with the players and I think things could be sorted out a little before that."

YOUNGSTERS LAPPING IT UP IN LAPLAND 11-06-2007

Evening Post Swansea City boss Roberto Martinez says he is delighted with the reports he is getting back from Swedish outfit Ostersund.The Scandinavian country's third division club have taken Liberty Stadium youngsters Kerry Morgan and Scott Evans on loan this summer. And the Swans manager is hearing back from the club in northern Sweden on a daily basis. "I'm very pleased with what I'm hearing about Kerry and Scott," the 33-year-old Spaniard said. "They are both improving in every single department." The two teenagers have been on loan since mid-May after Martinez arranged a link between the two clubs. "They have had to knuckle down and work hard and that has made them stronger players," Martinez added. And Evans and Morgan will not be the only two players to be sent out on loan. Martinez is already considering which players may need to go out to get some much needed game time under their belts. Teenage striker Chris Jones has already been linked with a loan move to assistant manager Graeme Jones's former club Hamilton Academical. Defender Steve Watt is likely go out on loan at some point as he returns to full fitness from a second dislocated shoulder injury in 12 months. And Wales Under-21 international Shaun MacDonald could be offered the chance, too, as he recovers from various muscle injuries in the past season. "We have to do what is best for the players and for Swansea City," Martinez said. "If we feel it is best for the player to go out on loan then that is what we will try to do. "However, if we feel that it is best for a player to stay here and fight for his place then that is what will happen."

Scotland confident over work permit decision 11-06-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail NEW Swansea City signing Jason Scotland is confident that he will be granted a work permit. The Swans have already agreed terms with St Johnstone over the transfer of Scotland – a nominal fee in the area of £15,000 – and have tied the 28-year-old to a two-year deal. The Trinidad & Tobago striker scored 26 goals in the Scottish First Division last season and Swansea manager Roberto Martinez believes he will be a big hit. But Scotland must get a work permit first and his fate will be decided by the Home Office on July 4. Believing that he will get the decision he wants, Scotland said, “I can’t wait to link up with the club. “I’ve been brought in to score goals and help us win promotion, and I’m sure I can play a big part in that. “Hopefully I can get a good partnership going with Lee Trundle – it will be a good contest to see who can pull off the best tricks and score the most spectacular goals!”

SCOTLAND SWEAT ON PERMIT BID 11-06-2007

Daily Record JASON SCOTLAND will be told next month whether he will be allowed to join Swansea City. The St Johnstone striker has agreed a two-year deal with the Swans. However, the 28-year-old Trinidad and Tobago international has been forced to apply for anew work permit. And his move to the English League One side is subject to it been granted. Out of contract at McDiarmid Park in August, Scotland has had to re-apply for a permit after the government changed residency rules. Previously, if a player had been in the UK for four years he could stay indefinitely. But the rule has been changed to five years and Scotland is about to complete only his fourth. A hearing to decide on his application will take place at the Home Office in London on July 4. Scotland looks to independence day - Dundee Courier ST JOHNSTONE striker Jason Scotland will find out next month if he can complete his proposed move to Swansea City. The Trinidad and Tobago international has provisionally agreed a two-year deal with the Welsh club but the transfer is subject to him being granted a work permit. Scotland has been forced to re-apply for a permit after the Government altered residency rules. Previously, if a player had been in the UK for four years he could then stay indefinitely, but that has now been changed to five. The 28-year-old frontman will finish only his fourth year this summer. The hearing which will decide his fate will take place at the Home Office in London on July 4. DUNFERMLINE goalkeeper Dorus de Vries could be set for a move to the English Premiership. The Dutchman is reportedly attracting the attention of Wigan Athletic.

Scotland looks to independence day 11-06-2007

Dundee Courier ST JOHNSTONE striker Jason Scotland will find out next month if he can complete his proposed move to Swansea City. The Trinidad and Tobago international has provisionally agreed a two-year deal with the Welsh club but the transfer is subject to him being granted a work permit. Scotland has been forced to re-apply for a permit after the Government altered residency rules. Previously, if a player had been in the UK for four years he could then stay indefinitely, but that has now been changed to five. The 28-year-old frontman will finish only his fourth year this summer. The hearing which will decide his fate will take place at the Home Office in London on July 4. DUNFERMLINE goalkeeper Dorus de Vries could be set for a move to the English Premiership. The Dutchman is reportedly attracting the attention of Wigan Athletic.

Martinez: We’ve got a mountain to climb 10-06-2007

by Peter Shuttleworth, Wales On Sunday UP A SWEDISH mountainside is not quite the dizzy heights Swansea City had hoped for this summer. But Roberto Martinez is taking his men to a high altitude training for a gruelling fit club. The ambitious Swans were dreaming of promotion to the Championship last season but narrowly missed out on a League One play-off spot. Martinez is confident his City slickers have the footballing ability to win promotion but feels his squad must up their fitness levels if they’re to go up a division. So new manager Martinez will drag his team 1,000m above sea level to Sweden’s World Championship ski resort in a bid to crank up their energy levels, and ensure their standards don’t go downhill next season. Martinez confirmed: “I want Swansea to play high energy and intense football which will require superior fitness levels so energy will be a big thing. “The week after my players return from their summer break, we’ll go to Sweden and do high altitude training where the air is so thin, even a little stroll is hard work. “We’ll do a lot of endurance work so the players better not think it’ll be a holiday. It’ll be damn hard work. “Our training base will be the World Championship ski centre which is among the best facilities in the world. They’ve a state-of-the-art gym for the injured players, great cross country running trails and a 4G indoor astroturf. “Some of the lads want to go skiing but the insurance premiums would probably bankrupt the club! More importantly it is far too dangerous because someone is bound to hurt themselves.” Martinez replaced Kenny Jackett in February and his high-octane brand of football inspired Swansea from mid-table mediocrity to the verge of an unexpected play-off berth. Now the Spaniard, an advocate of sexy football at Swansea, has told his players to get in tip-top condition and maintain their standards for a whole campaign. And the suave Swans supremo is taking a leaf out of another trendy continental coach by not allowing his players to train without a ball. That is Chelsea’s special one Jose Mourinho blueprint for success. Martinez said: “I want my team to be positive and dictate games. “In football, it is harder work to be on the ball than off it. “I don’t want us to be destroyers, that is not the footballing philosophy of either me or Swansea City. “We must be commanding and make things happen, you need to be really fit so that is why, once our hard work is done in Sweden, we’ll always be with a ball. “I want us to train at match intensity and that means with the ball. Every training drill should have a purpose and we will replicate our training on a matchday. “When there’s a ball involved, your body works harder and works the relevant muscles. But it is all about training smart; working hard for one hour rather than plodding around for two. “All the lads train with a heart rate monitor so I know how hard they’re working, which exercises they find tough and which ones are easier. There’s no hiding place now.” Swansea’s players will report back for pre-season training on June 29 and have been warned they face a fine if they return overweight or out of shape. Martinez added: “It is important for the players to understand that they need to be professional footballers 24/7 for the rest of their lives. “Footballers shouldn’t take pleasure in the little things. There’s no day off from a healthy lifestyle as a footballer, that’s the sacrifice they make for their profession. So no burgers or kebabs. “They’ve all been given nutritional advice and specialised diet and training plan for the close season from our physio Richie Evans. For the first two weeks, they’ve a ban on any physical activity so they can recover. “But players will not be returning for pre-season to get fit, they are returning to start work.”

Derry all set for return 09-06-2007

Yorkshire Evening Post LEEDS UNITED midfielder Shaun Derry is in line to return for the start of pre-season training after recovering from a damaged Achilles tendon. Derry has not featured in a first-team fixture since United's FA Cup third-round defeat at West Bromwich Albion on January 6, and his season was ended prematurely by an operation to repair his injured Achilles. The 29-year-old signed a two-year extension to his contract at Elland Road in August, tieing himself to the club until 2009, but his pre-season schedule 12 months ago was disrupted by a toe injury and he underwent surgery on a hernia five games into the league campaign. The unfortunate catalogue of injuries restricted him to 25 appearances last season, but a cast on Derry's ankle is expected to be removed next week, and he should be fit to resume training when pre-season training begins on July 2. Derry's experience of the Championship and his 300 league appearances as a professional could make him a target for second-tier clubs this summer, although the length of his contract would ensure United a fee if the midfielder were to leave. Wise, however, may be keen to keep his vice-captain who excelled for Leeds during their run to the Championship play-off final 12 months ago. Other contracted squad members are expected to move on before the start of the League One term, including striker David Healy, but Wise will wish to limit the disruption with a Football League transfer embargo restricting his freedom to construct a new squad at Elland Road. United's first signing of the summer will not arrive until the start of next month as administrators KPMG fulfil a statutory 28-day waiting period following the approval of chairman Ken Bates' Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) at the start of this week. Leeds have been linked with ex-Manchester United winger Jamie Mullan and Millwall midfielder Marvin Elliott, while Wise is also expected to fight for the signature of Izzy Iriekpen with the Swansea City defender's contract due to expire this summer.

Talks stall over new Akinfenwa deal 09-06-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY striker Adebayo Akinfenwa admits his contract negotiations have “stalled” at the Liberty Stadium. Akinfenwa says he wants to stay at Swansea, but the powerful front man – who is currently battling back to fitness after breaking his leg in February – has revealed he has had interest from two Championship club as well as six League One teams. The 25-year-old is among four Swansea players yet to resolve their futures, with club captain Garry Monk, Kris O’Leary and Izzy Iriekpen still to accept or reject contract offers. Yesterday Iriekpen admitted he had felt insulted after it emerged the four players had been offered only one-year deals by Swans boss Roberto Martinez. Akinfenwa said he could understand his team-mate’s frustration, but said he was content with the offer of 12 months. “I spoke to Izzy a few weeks ago and I can see where he is coming from,” said Akinfenwa, who signed for the Swans in a £100,000-plus deal from Torquay two years ago. “From a personal perspective, a one-year deal is fine for me. I say that because after that further options might open up either at Swansea or somewhere else. “I love it at Swansea. I’ve really enjoyed my time there and it’s where my heart is to be honest. “I love the set-up and the supporters have been fantastic to me. “But my agent has had enquiries from other clubs, two from the Championship, and it is nice to know that interest is there if things don’t go to plan at the Liberty. “I have had some talks with the Swans, but they’ve stalled a bit, although I have been away for a couple of weeks. “I’m in no rush. I want to make sure I make the right decision about my future. “It’s just a matter of me now sitting down with my agent and seeing what can be worked out, but my aim really is to stay with Swansea.” Last season turned into a devastating one for Akinfenwa when he broke his leg in Swansea’s 2-0 defeat to Scunthorpe on February 20. Since then it’s been a frustrating few months for him as he watched his side, under the guidance of new manager Martinez, narrowly miss out on the League One play-off places. But Akinfenwa said he is now very much back on the road to recovery, and, if everything goes well, he could be ready for the start of the new season in August. “I saw my surgeon recently and he told me everything is healing fine and is on schedule,” said Akinfenwa. “If things continue like this, I’ll be running soon and able to start training. “If I can get a pre-season, I could be ready to start playing by the start of August. “But I think it will be the end of August at the latest. “It has been frustrating to miss so much football, but I’m looking forward to next season already now.” As Akinfenwa retains hope os staying a Swansea player, Iriekpen’s career at the club looks all but over after his blast over the deal he has been offered. “It’s not about the money,” said the former West Ham defender. “It’s the length of contract and the fact there has been no negotiation. “To say we should just sign what is put in front of us is an insult. “I feel I have to say something because of what is coming out of the club.” Before sitting down for talks with Akinfenwa and his other out-of-contract players, Martinez has been back to his native Spain to run the rule over some potential transfer targets. And, with two games remaining in the Spanish League, Martinez says he will return to see at least one more match. “I’ve taken in five games in five days this week,” said Martinez. “People may say it’s quiet at the moment, but I can assure you it’s not. “I watched a game in Andorra and four in Spain. It’s important that we get as much information as we can and not just about players either. “But there is one team that I really want to see play before they finish their season and I hope to do that.” Swansea defenders Kevin Austin and Steve Watt have already agreed new one-year deal, but Martinez’ only summer signing to date is Trinidad & Tobago striker Jason Scotland.

MARTINEZ: SPANISH SEARCH NOT OVER YET 08-06-2007

Evening Post Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez says his Spanish scouting mission is far from over.The 33-year-old flew back into Wales last night after another whistle-stop tour of his homeland. But with two games remaining in the Spanish league, Martinez says he will return to see at least one more match. "I have taken in five games in five days this week," Martinez said. "People may say it is quiet at the moment but I can assure you that it is not. "I watched a game in Andorra and four in Spain. It is important that we get as much information as we can - and not just about players either. "But there is one team that I really want to see play before they finish their season and I hope to do that." The Spanish league system sees La Liga clubs playing their reserve teams in the lower divisions, with two professional leagues below the Spanish top flight as well as other tiers. "It is quite difficult to compare the Spanish system to the English one, but they do have some fantastic players," Martinez added. "I'm at looking at every single department and ways that I can improve Swansea City Football Club." Martinez has spent most of this close season scouring the continent. "Maybe once everything is sorted out I will look at having a couple of days off," Martinez said. "But that is something that I'm not really thinking about at the moment. The most important thing is that we get it all sorted for the start of the new season." One thing Martinez is hoping to have a clearer picture on next week is the decision of his four out-of-contract players. Skipper Garry Monk, Kristian O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen and Bayo Akinfenwa have yet to inform the club of their intentions with their contract offers. "Hopefully things will become a lot clearer in the next three or four days," Martinez said. "These players should know that they are very important to plans and I hope that I will get good news from all four of them. They can all play a massive part in my project." Former Swansea defender Tommy Smith is recovering in hospital after suffering a heart attack at his Merseyside home.

INSULTED 08-06-2007

Evening Post Izzy Iriekpen has accused Swansea City of insulting their out-of-contract players by offering only one-year deals.And the defender has admitted the chances of him staying at the Liberty Stadium are bleak. Iriekpen is one of a quartet yet to formally signal their intentions to the club, with skipper Garry Monk, Kristian O'Leary and Bayo Akinfenwa also pondering over offers. Kevin Austin signed a contract extension last week while fellow defender Steve Watt is poised to pen a new deal within the next few days. "It is not about the money," Iriekpen told the Evening Post. "It is the length of contract and the fact there has been no negotiation. "To say we should just sign what is put in front of us is an insult. "I feel I have to say something because of what is coming out of the club." Iriekpen admits his future may lie away from the Liberty if the length of contract is not increased. "The new players coming in have been offered two-year deals and we get one - plus we haven't been able speak to anyone to enter into any negotiations," Iriekpen said. "With the way it is at the moment it doesn't look good for me staying." The central defender, who went on the transfer list at his own request last term before asking to come off, is believed to have spoken to several clubs about a possible move. Leeds are also interested in the 25-year-old. "My agent has told me he spoke to Leeds," he added. "I have spoken to several clubs as well - we just can't talk to my chairman." Any move to Leeds could be held up with the Elland Road club having a transfer embargo placed on them by the Football League. That would need to be lifted for them to attract any new faces. Meanwhile, the Evening Post understands Cheltenham Town are poised to make a move for O'Leary should he turn down a new deal at Swansea. Cheltenham chairman Paul Baker is understood to have placed O'Leary high on his wanted list after he impressed during his loan spell at the club last November. O'Leary's contract at the Liberty expires at the end of this month and he has less than a fortnight to respond to the new offer.

WATT READY TO COMMIT WHILE CLUB WAITS ON OTHER FOUR 07-06-2007

Evening Post - Michael Reeves Steve Watt says he is reluctant to return to his native Scotland for a loan move as he prepares to sign a new one-year deal at Swansea City.Speculation north of the border has linked the former Scotland Under-21 international with a temporary move to Scottish first division side Hamilton Academical. However, a move to New Douglas Park does not appeal to the 22-year-old central defender. "I have turned down moves to SPL (Scottish Premier League) sides in the past so I wouldn't be keen on Hamilton," the former Chelsea trainee admitted. "But I have spoken to Roberto (Martinez) about going out on loan and I'm happy to do that for however long it is." Watt is expected to meet with the Liberty Stadium officials next week to sign his new contract. Despite his 16-month Swansea career wrecked by two shoulder injuries, he admits it was an offer that shocked him. "To be honest I was surprised that I was offered a new contract," the 22-year-old said. "But Roberto (Martinez) knows what I'm capable of and knows what type of player that I am, so I think that really helped. "I'm just looking forward to working with him and hopefully I will get to meet with the club soon so that I can sign." Watt is the second player to agree terms on a new deal at Swansea following Kevin Austin signing on the dotted line last week, while skipper Garry Monk, Kristian O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen and Bayo Akinfenwa have yet to commit. Aberdeen-born Watt has been out since January after dislocating his shoulder for the second time in 12 months. And now Watt is determined to repay the faith that boss Martinez has shown in him. "The gym has been like a second home to me this summer," he said. "The shoulder is feeling good and I'm looking forward to playing again." Meanwhile, chairman Huw Jenkins has warned the other four out-of-contract players that time is running out for them to signal their intentions to the club. Monk, O'Leary, Iriekpen and Akinfenwa have been offered new deals at the Liberty Stadium, but they have less than a fortnight to respond to the take-it-or-leave-it contracts. "We have made what we believe are good offers," Jenkins said. "Roberto has a budget to work to and he needs to know what is happening. "The offers sent out had a deadline on June 19 and if we have heard nothing by then, then technically the offer has been rejected and they will be free to leave."

Watt takes short-term Swans deal 06-06-2007

BBCi Watt has been given another chance to prove himself at Swansea Swansea City centre-back Steven Watt has agreed to sign a new one-year contract with the club. Watt, 22, was offered a new deal despite making just three appearances for Swansea since joining on a free transfer in January last year. The former Chelsea trainee has discussed the possibility of starting next season on loan at another club. Swansea are still waiting to hear from four other out of contract players who have been offered new deals. They are Garry Monk, Izzy Iriekpen, Adebayo Akinfenwa and Kristian O'Leary. Defender Kevin Austin was the first of the out of contract players to agree new terms with the club.

Hartlepool bid for Duffy rejected 05-06-2007

Eatsleepsport Hartlepool have reportedly bid 120,000 for Hull striker Daryl Duffy - but their offer is expected to be rejected. The news comes after City chairman Adam Pearson raised the asking price to 500,000 after the Scottish striker attracted interest from League One and Championship clubs following a successful season while on loan at Hartlepool and Swansea City. Hartlepool manager Danny Wilson made the offer after Duffy spent two successful months at Victoria Park, scoring five times in 10 appearances.

Britton: My mate Sid has European pedigree 04-06-2007

Wales on Sunday THE lure of success and Champions League football was enough for Steve Sidwell - but Chelsea's newest star has already graced one of European football's biggest stages. Swansea City ace Leon Britton was alongside Sidwell when he walked out into Barcelona's iconic Nou Camp stadium - on a guided tour. Britton was Sidwell's skipper during his youth days at North London club Colliers Wood and the Swans winger is elated that his old mate will heading to some of Europe's top grounds next season to do more than simply take in the scenery. "When we had a look around the Nou Camp as kids, I bet Siddy never dreamt he'd ever return there to play," said Britts. "We were on football tour with Colliers Wood and I remember having a guided tour of the Nou Camp before going to their training ground to watch their stars practice. "We watched some great players train as it was the days when Hristo Stoichkov, Gheorghe Hagi and Romario played for Barcelona. It was an incredible experience. "Now Siddy will have the chance to go there and play as Chelsea have a habit of drawing Barcelona in the Champions League. "At least he'll know what to expect." Britton and Sidwell were centre midfield partners for seven years at Colliers Wood and Premiership giants Arsenal after joining the Gunners' youth academy together at 14. Britton recalled: "I was captain at Colliers Wood and Siddy was my vice captain. We were two of five Colliers Wood players picked by the Arsenal youth team."

AUSTIN SIGNS ON 03-06-2007

Evening Post Kevin Austin has tied up a new deal at the Liberty Stadium - and hopes Swansea City's other out-of-contract players will follow suit. The Evening Post revealed on Wednesday that the former Bristol Rovers defender was close to signing a new contract, and yesterday afternoon he put pen to paper to add a further 12 months to his stay at the Liberty Stadium. Austin, 33, had only a few formalities to go through before he finally signed on the dotted line and now fully expects to be part of Roberto Martinez's plans for next season. He has enjoyed an eventful three years at the club, having tasted promotion in his first season, play-off heartbreak in the second, along with two FAW Premier Cup final wins and the Football League Trophy victory at the Millennium Stadium. Last season he started more than 30 games and was a solid part of the defensive unit as the club just missed out on the play-off spots. ''I was not concentrating on other offers,'' said Austin. ''Me and my agent were concentrating on this deal with the club. I just wanted to sign with Swansea. There is every reason to stay." While Austin has confirmed his place at the Liberty next season, the club are still waiting for replies from skipper Garry Monk, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kris O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen and Steve Watt. All have been offered new deals but none of the five has put pen to paper. Austin believes they are key cogs in the Swansea machine and with Martinez at the helm, he believes the club can step up to the Championship at the third time of asking. ''Those players are catalysts in the team,'' he said. ''They have their own personal reasons, but I hope they stay here. ''The way Roberto has gone about it as manager is similar to how he was as a player. He is very methodical. He has brought a freshness to the club and is very professional. ''With the players and manager here and the fan base at the club, we can go up another step.'' Swansea City have reported that season-ticket sales continue to go well. Season-ticket holders who wish to retain their seat from last season have until the end of June to do so. The club have re-introduced an easy payment plan to help fans spread the cost of their season ticket over 10 months. For further details phone the Liberty Stadium ticket office on 08700 400004

BRITTON: I'LL BE EVEN BETTER 01-06-2007

Evening Post Leon Britton has pledged to be an even better player next season in Swansea City's bid to reach the Championship.Midfielder Britton believes there's more to come from him as he prepares for the first full season under Roberto Martinez. Despite being voted Player of the Year by Evening Post readers to round off a memorable campaign personally, the 24-year-old promises to raise the bar next season. Popular with the Liberty Stadium crowd after some dazzling displays down the right flank, Britton's glowing performances will add weight on him as he aims to fire the club into the Championship at the third time of asking. "From a team's point of view it was disappointing to miss out on promotion for a second season," said Britton who became a father for the first time when his girlfriend Lucy recently gave birth to daughter Lily. "But from a personal point of view I was fairly pleased with my form and overall performances. "But I am certainly not going to rest on my laurels, because I firmly believe there's more to come. "I think I've improved as a player over the last two years, but I know I can get better. "I want to show the Swans fans an even better Leon Britton next season - after all, I've got another mouth to feed now," he joked. After missing out on promotion last season, the Londoner hopes Martinez can lift them to within distance of English football's top flight. "I think all the lads are looking forward to next season. I know I am. "I enjoyed the training under the gaffer and Graeme Jones at the end of last season, so it will be interesting to start the new campaign fresh with them at the helm. "It will be interesting to see what new ideas they introduce to the pre-season preparations, but I'm sure they will be conducive to the type of players we have in the squad. "Hopefully we can get off to a flyer and make it third time lucky next season."

HULL: NO DUFFY OFFER 01-06-2007

Evening Post Hull City have all but admitted they want a whopping £500,000 for Swansea City target Darryl Duffy.The Evening Post revealed Hull's inflated asking price on Tuesday. And Tigers chairman Adam Pearson has now confessed: "The price that has been quoted is not something we have placed on Darryl Duffy, but it wouldn't be far off what we would want to let him go. "There have been no firm offers for Darryl at this stage, but there's been a lot of interest in the past few weeks." Pearson's comments will only add to a feeling at the Liberty Stadium that Hull are doing all they can to increase Duffy's transfer value. The Scottish striker, who netted five goals in five starts when on loan at Swansea at the end of last season, is keen for a permanent return to Wales. Hartlepool and Hibernian are also keen on the 23-year-old, but neither club would be willing to meet Hull's extravagant demands. Swansea have launched an easy payment plan to allow fans to spread the cost of season tickets, which can now be paid for over 10 months. For more information contact the Liberty Stadium ticket office on 08700 400004.

EX-SWANS BOSS ESCAPES JAIL 01-06-2007

Evening Post Former Swans chief executive Mike Lewis has been sentenced to 200 hours community service for his part in a fraud at Exeter City FC which left the club on the brink of collapse.Lewis, who was in control of Swansea City from July 1999 to October 2001, and his business partner John Russell, left the West Country club £4.5 million in debt after their spell in charge. Both men admitted fraudulent trading at Bristol Crown Court. Russell was jailed for 21 months for his part in the soccer scam. Speaking after the sentence Lewis, of Loughor Road, Gorseinon, said: "It's taken a toll on both of us. "I'm just shocked at the sentence John has received. "I think many football clubs will be thinking 'there but for the grace of God'." The court had heard that when the two men were in charge of the club debts went unpaid, cheques bounced and money meant for the club's academy and community projects was illegally transferred by the club. The two men continued trading despite knowing the club was insolvent and unable to repay loans. Sixty-five year old Lewis admitted fraudulent trading for a period of nine weeks from March 2003. He escaped jail because the judge accepted he had played a lesser role in the scam. The two men took over the club in May 2002, less than a year after Lewis sold the Swans for just £1. The court heard that Lewis's role was as the "football man" who would use his contacts and expertise to help the club. But the new regime was built on a financial lie. Cheques began bouncing, loans were not being repaid and creditors were soon getting nervous. Lewis and Russell continued to offer assurances that everything was fine and appeared to ignore a series of warnings about the club's impending insolvency, the court heard. Despite the mounting debts, both men paid themselves "expenses" and generous consultancy fees. During their ill-fated period in charge, pop superstar Michael Jackson was made an honorary director of the club, and visited the club's St James Park with his friend Uri Geller, who was appointed vice-chairman. But even that proved a failure as the PR events made a loss. Lewis and Russell blamed the previous regime for the club's position, and said it was effectively bankrupt when they took it over. Exeter ended the season being relegated to the Conference.

NUGENT SAYS GOODBYE 31-05-2007

Evening Post - GARETH VINCENT Kevin Nugent has left Swansea City by mutual consent after four-and-a-half years at the club.The targetman turned assistant manager departs having been marginalised under the Roberto Martinez regime. Brought to Swansea initially as a player by Brian Flynn, Nugent weighed in with five vital goals as the club dodged the drop to the Conference in 2003. After netting 10 more the following campaign, the former Cardiff striker was released by Kenny Jackett in May 2004 only to return a couple of weeks later as reserve-team manager and back-up player. By July, Nugent had been promoted to Jackett's No. 2 and 10 months later he was memorably pictured celebrating automatic promotion with Jackett at Bury's Gigg Lane. When his boss quit in February this year, Nugent took over as caretaker manager and filled the role admirably for three games - despite collecting only one point - before Martinez took the reins. After bringing in Graeme Jones as his assistant, the Spaniard switched Nugent to a new role as opposition scout. But just over two months after taking that job, the 38-year-old has opted to move on. "We met with Kevin last week and decided mutually that we would come to a small financial settlement on the remaining year of his contract," said Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins. "I get on very well with Kevin and he didn't want to be seen as just seeing out his contract. "He felt things weren't the same for him at the club any more as he is not involved in first-team affairs. "He wants to pursue a few other things and I understand that." Nugent was never an idol in the eyes of Swansea's fans, though he did well enough as a player to ensure they soon forgot about his Cardiff connections. And while some supporters called for Jackett to add some experience to his backroom staff, particularly during the bad times, his effort and commitment to the cause could never be questioned. "Kevin was fantastic from the day he joined us," Jenkins added. "We worked hard to secure his services from Leyton Orient and he never gave anything less than 100 per cent as a player. He did very well for us at that time. "He then worked with Kenny for three years and played a part in what we achieved in that time. "And when he became caretaker manager, albeit briefly, he put everything into it and really showed his commitment and feeling for the club." Though Nugent has departed for now, Jenkins indicated that the Liberty Stadium may not have seen the last of the Londoner. "We didn't really want to see him go," he added. "And my last words to Kevin were that I hope some time in the future we will work together again." Huddersfield have revealed they made a late bid to snatch Jason Scotland from under the nose of Swansea. Former Liberty keeper Andy Oakes, meanwhile, is being linked with Darlington and Barnet after rejecting a move to Exeter City. Welsh international Glyn Garner, who had been touted as a possible replacement for Oakes, has joined Shrewsbury Town.

Businessman jailed for Grecians fraud 31-05-2007

Daily Mail A "broke" businessman who took over Exeter City after lying about his personal wealth was today jailed for 21 months for fraud. John Russell, 51, claimed he had substantial funds to invest in The Grecians before he was appointed chairman in May 2002. In reality, the club's new saviour had no cash and no assets to plough into the Devon club, who were already severely in debt, a court heard. Russell and his deputy, Michael Lewis, desperately attempted to keep the club going despite going further into the red during their first and only season in charge. Debts went unpaid, cheques bounced and money ringfenced for the club's academy and community projects were illegally transferred by the club, Bristol Crown Court was told. The two men continued trading despite knowing the club was insolvent and unable to repay loans. Russell, of Cannon Hall Close, Brighouse, West Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to fraudulent trading and obtaining a pecuniary advantage by deception. Lewis, 65, of Loughor Road, Gorseinon, Swansea, also admitted fraudulent trading, but was sentenced to 200 hours of community work after the judge accepted he played a lesser role in the scam. In sentencing Russell, Judge David Ticehurst told him that he had betrayed the club's football fans and treated it as his own personal domain. "You wanted to be the club's financial saviour or white knight even though you knew that was quite impossible," he said. "The deception could be seen in your conduct at the club when you sent personal guarantees knowing you did not have the financial means to meet them." The court heard the two men took over the club in May 2002. Russell was to provide the much-needed financial investment and commercial know-how, while Lewis, the former chairman of Swansea, was the "football man" who would use his contacts and expertise to help the club. But the new regime was built on a lie. Russell, who left the same position at Scarborough after the Yorkshire club went into administration, had claimed he owned a hotel, property and businesses which would help transform the club's fortunes. Paul Dunkels, prosecuting, said: "He was broke. He had no assets, no money and no bank account and certainly had no money to invest in Exeter City." Russell offered his directors generous personal guarantees over existing debts and liabilities, which were in fact "worthless", the court heard. Russell effectively dispensed with board meetings, as the other directors were sidelined. Cheques began bouncing, loans were not being repaid and creditors were soon getting nervous, the court heard. Russell and Lewis continued to offer assurances that everything was fine and appeared to ignore a series of warnings about the club's impending insolvency. The court were told they moved money from accounts to buy themselves time and told banks that money would be deposited within hours, but never materialised. During their ill-fated period in charge, pop superstar Michael Jackson was made an honorary director of the club, and visited the club's St James Park with his friend Uri Geller, who was appointed vice-chairman. But even that proved a failure as the PR events made a loss. Russell admitted that by September 2002 he realised the club was insolvent and was now trading illegally. Lewis, who previously worked at Spurs, Reading and Cardiff, claimed he was only aware of the club's dire financial position in March 2003. Despite the mounting debts, both men paid themselves "expenses" and generous consultancy fees, while Mr Russell's wife Gillian was one of the few creditors to be paid back. Both men also charged the club for their rents and even found positions for their family at the business. Lewis later told police that "half the clubs" in the football league were trading illegally after going bust. Both men blamed the previous regime for the club's position and said it was effectively bankrupt when they took it over. When asked by police what he had brought to the club, Russell told them: "Expertise." The court heard the men left Exeter £4.5million in debt and on the brink of extinction. The supporters' trust took over the club and agreed to pay back 7p in the pound to creditors, leaving dozens of businesses and individuals hundreds of thousands of pounds out of pocket. Russell had previously been convicted of two counts of obtaining money by deception at Bradford Crown Court in 1999, and was given a 15-month sentence - suspended for two years. Derek Duffy, defending, said the former footballer had "deluded" himself he could save the club, but had never attempt to gain from his involvement at Exeter. He said he may have been guilty of being "too ambitious" and said he had tried to sign Paul Gascoigne to the club. Duffy said: "We accept Mr Russell acted dishonestly, the reason for that dishonesty was not to benefit himself but in the mistaken belief that if he had got to the end of the season, Exeter could have been saved. He added: "He doesn't deserve to go to prison for living the dream." Exeter ended the season being relegated to the Conference. Speaking after the day-long sentencing, Lewis said: "It's taken a toll on both of us. I'm just shocked at the sentence John has received. "I think many football clubs will be thinking 'there for the grace of God'." Neil Le Milliere, 53, who now sits on the Exeter board, said the fans were pleased with the sentence. "Hopefully this will send out a message to anyone thinking of doing something similar not to. "We were very close to the brink. The supporters' trust put three directors in place, who took no money and expenses, and they brought (the club) back from the brink of extinction."

Lawrence quits Soca Warriors duty 31-05-2007

BBCi Lawrence's goal sent Trinidad & Tobago to the 2006 World Cup finals Swansea City's Dennis Lawrence has ended his international career. The Trinidad and Tobago defender, 32, said he was quitting because of the on-going dispute between the players and their national federation. Lawrence is one of 13 players at odds with the T&T Football Federation over payments owed from the World Cup. "I have a lot to offer still but under the current circumstances it's not possible," said Lawrence, who has won 66 caps for Trinidad and Tobago. "I've always been a team player, but at this moment I have to look after my needs and that of my family, which is trying to get the best out of myself for my club." I do hope that for the future of T&T football, both sides will soon resolve the matter Lawrence's goal in a play-off with Bahrain sent the Soca Warriors to the World Cup finals for the first time last year. They drew one and lost two of their group games in Germany, but the party turned sour in the weeks following their return home as the players accused the T&TFF of withholding promised payments. The row remains unresolved, with the players threatening to take their cause to the law courts. In response, the T&TFF have refused to consider any of the disgruntled players for selection for June's Concacaf Gold Cup in the United States. Lawrence added: "A lot has happened over the last ten months since our last game in Germany, and it has been very frustrating for me and many others involved in football. "I have had a lot of time to think and discuss with my family, friends and agent about my position on the matter at hand. "For the record, I will like to say that I fully support my team-mates in their stand for what we believe is right. "Having said this, however, I must add that I do not support the legal action taken against the T&TFF, because I feel that between the players and the T&TFF we had a good enough relationship to deal with our issues behind closed doors. "It is sad to say now that this is not the case. However, I do hope that for the future of T&T football, both sides will soon resolve the matter."

STAND-OFF AT LIBERTY 30-05-2007

Evening Post Kevin Austin is poised to sign a new Liberty Stadium deal - but Swansea City are growing increasingly frustrated with their five other out-of-contract players.The Evening Post understands veteran defender Austin is on the brink of committing to Swansea for the next 12 months. But the futures of club skipper Garry Monk, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kris O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen and Steve Watt are far more uncertain. All five have been offered fresh terms, but as yet there is little sign of any of them putting pen to paper. And those in charge at the Liberty are becoming more and more agitated by the lack of progress, which they believe is hindering their summer rebuilding plans. It is believed many of the players involved are unhappy with the terms on offer. But Swansea, who have pledged to do some belt-tightening this summer, are refusing to budge. That means a stand-off which could conceivably end with all five players departing. Monk and company have until the middle of June to respond to their offers, after which the club can withdraw them if they wish. ''The chairman and directors of the club are very disappointed,'' a highly-placed Swansea source told the Post. ''The offers have been made to the players in good faith and yet the club have now been left in limbo at a time when we need to push on, finalise our budgets and see what money is available to strengthen the squad. ''It's disappointing because we felt these boys would jump at the chance to stay with the club. We thought they would have wanted to carry on furthering their careers under Roberto Martinez. ''But the impression we're getting is that they aren't that bothered about staying. ''Frustration is certainly growing within the club.'' Rumours continue to circulate that the five players involved are not happy with what is on the table, whether it be in terms of finance or length of contract. But our source added: ''There's always somebody out there who will pay more, but the club feel the offers are fair. ''We feel there are good times ahead under Roberto and that's why it's so disappointing that these players don't seem to want to stay at the club." Swansea target Dorus De Vries has admitted it will be a wrench should he quit Dunfermline following their relegation from the Scottish Premier League. ''If I leave I will leave with pain in my heart,'' said the Dutch goalkeeper, who is out of contract this summer. ''It's been a great move for me because I didn't have a name for myself in Scotland and Britain before I came.''

£500,000 TAG ON DUFFY 29-05-2007

Evening Post Darryl Duffy admits he has no idea where he will be playing next season amid speculation Hull have slapped a £500,000 price tag on his head. Duffy remains a top target for Swansea City boss Roberto Martinez despite last week's acquisition of fellow frontman Jason Scotland. But there is no chance of Swansea meeting Hull's inflated asking price, leaving Martinez to play a waiting game as he bids to snare the Scottish speedster on a permanent basis. Hull have told Duffy he will be part of their Championship squad next season if no suitable offers come in over the summer. But Swansea must hope Tigers boss Phil Brown, who has six forwards on his books and is trailing Bradford's Dean Windass, decides to cash in on a player whose contract expires in 12 months' time. Former Hull boss Peter Taylor paid £250,000 for Duffy in January last year and Swansea could be prepared to stump up something near that to bring their former loanee back to Wales. ''I was hoping I would have something sorted one way or another by now, but I haven't got a clue what's happening,'' Duffy said. ''I've been to see Phil Brown and basically he's said that he's happy to keep me at Hull. ''He said if I have a good pre-season and score a few goals then I will start the season. ''But he also said if the club gets a good offer for me and I want to leave he will not stand in my way. ''I'm still keen to come back to Swansea. I think it would be a decent move if it came off, but right now I'm still a Hull player.'' Hull's valuation of Duffy looks excessive given that the former Rangers youngster has made little impact at the KC Stadium. League One new boys Hartlepool and Scottish Premier League side Hibernian are also keen on the 23-year-old, but both clubs seem sure to be put off by Hull's demands. ''I don't know what they want for me,'' added Duffy, who scored five times in five Swansea starts at the back end of last season. ''That's between clubs and agents. They wouldn't tell me anything like that. ''Apparently there a few teams in for me, but I don't know that for sure because it's just speculation. ''I haven't spoke to Roberto Martinez for a few weeks. He said he'll let me know if there's any news that concerns me, but at the moment I'm in the dark.''

Martinez completes Scotland swoop 27-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY boss Roberto Martinez has hailed the signing of Jason Scotland after fending off competition from a number of Scottish Premier League clubs to sign the St Johnstone striker. The Trinidad and Tobago frontman (pictured right) was interesting Hibernian, Hearts and Dundee United after scoring 26 goals last season. But Martinez has persuaded the 28-year-old to sign for the League One club, subject to a work permit being granted. “I’m delighted to be able to secure a player of Jason’s calibre,” said Martinez, who has knowledge of the Scottish scene after a spell at Motherwell. “Goalscorers are the most precious commodity in football and I believe we’ve persuaded a quality striker to join us. “He is a striker with all-round ability which will enable him to play in a number of roles that give us different options. “He has a magic touch and can make something happen out of nothing. He’s an exciting player who always entertains and attracts the crowds – and players like that are a rare breed. “It’s also a bonus that he knows the British football scene having spent four successful years playing in Scotland.” The Swans have agreed a nominal fee with St Johnstone – thought to be as little as £15,000 – for Scotland’s release as he was under contract with St Johnstone until August 24. Swansea have already submitted an application for a work permit and are awaiting a hearing date from the Home Office. Scotland was denied a work permit to continue his two-year stay at Dundee United in 2005 before being forced to step down a division with Saints. Swansea have also completed the signing of combative midfielder Matty Collins from Fulham. Collins made 12 appearances for the reserves last season, but failed to break into the first team during his two seasons there. The 21-year-old, who was brought up in Merthyr Tydfil, completed several training sessions with Swansea towards the end of the season. He has represented Wales at U17 and U19 levels and was spotted by Fulham scouts while playing for Swindon.

JENKINS: LIBERTY SIX SHOULD COMMIT TO CLUB 27-05-2007

Evening Post Huw Jenkins has told Swansea City's out-of-contract players they would be foolish to quit the club this summer.Almost three weeks since Roberto Martinez announced he wanted them to stay, Garry Monk, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kris O'Leary, Kevin Austin, Izzy Iriekpen and Steve Watt are still to commit to new deals. It is understood the delay is because many are unhappy with the terms on offer at the Liberty Stadium, with some players' wage demands said to be a million miles from what Swansea are prepared to pay. But chairman Jenkins remains optimistic that all six will put pen to paper - and hopes it will happen soon. Martinez, who had claimed all would be resolved earlier this week, cannot be sure exactly what players he needs to recruit this summer and how much cash he has to spend until the futures of those already on Swansea's books are settled. "We are in a difficult period as a club where we have offered new deals to players and we are also looking to bring new players in," Jenkins conceded. "We've got to make sure we make the right decisions financially and we can't get away from the fact that over the last couple of years we haven't got as far as we wanted to go. "At the moment we are still talking to the six out-of-contract players and their agents. "We're talking to them every couple of days to see where we are and I'm quite hopeful that they will all end up staying. "They've all seen what the club is like under Roberto's guidance over the last few months. "They've seen how much he will help their careers and I would have thought that working for the right manager should be their priority. "I would assume they all want to be part of the future under Roberto and I believe it would be a big mistake to leave us now." Swansea have struck a deal with the Ospreys to share their training facilities at Llandarcy Park for the foreseeable future. "We're still looking for our own training ground where eventually we can set up an Academy," Jenkins said. "But Llandarcy will be our base for the next few years, and we are going to invest a considerable amount of money to upgrade the pitches." Swansea will have a trailer at the Urdd Eisteddfod at Carmarthen Showground from Monday through to next Saturday. Swans merchandise will be available along with The Who concert tickets.

DORUS NEXT ON THE LIST 27-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City are being linked with highly-rated goalkeeper Dorus De Vries after completing the signing of Fulham's Matty Collins and St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland.Midfielder Collins followed Scotland into the Liberty Stadium yesterday, penning a two-year deal after a successful trial spell at the back end of last season. Now Swansea are thought to be targeting Dutchman De Vries, set to play what could be his last game for Dunfermline against Celtic in today's Scottish Cup Final, as Roberto Martinez's summer rebuilding work gathers pace. And the Evening Post also understands Swansea have agreed a fee for ADO Den Haag midfielder Ferrie Bodde. Bodde, who will cost around £50,000 with add-ons depending on appearances, could be unveiled next week if the two parties can agree personal terms. Swansea will also be keen to wrap up De Vries's signature soon as they seek serious competition for Willy Gueret. A former team-mate of Bodde's at Den Haag, the 26-year-old stopper has been a big hit since switching to Scotland 12 months ago. But with his contract up this summer and Dunfermline relegated from the Scottish Premier League, De Vries could walk away for nothing. Hibernian and Dundee United have also been linked with the former Holland Under-21 international, who would almost certainly be regarded as Swansea's new first-choice No. 1 should Martinez lure him to Wales. Collins, meantime, is unlikely to be a first-team regular from the off next season with no senior appearances to his name as yet. But the Merthyr-born 21-year-old is seen as a bright prospect by Martinez. And though Fulham have allowed him to leave on a free, they have insisted on a sell-on clause as part of the deal for the Welsh youth international. ''He's a young Welsh boy who was snapped up by Fulham a few years ago and looked to have a promising career in front of him,'' said Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins (above). ''For whatever reason he has not made it to the first team, which is obviously quite difficult in the Premiership, but Roberto's had a good look at him and believes he could develop into a great signing over the next 12 months. ''Matty knows there's a lot of work in front of him if he is to become an established first-team player, but he has the potential and the ability to do that. ''He now has a great opportunity in front of him

SWANS SIGN FULHAM YOUNGSTER 25-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have signed Fulham youngster Matty Collins on a free transfer.The Merthyr-born midfielder has signed a two-year deal at the Liberty Stadium after a successful trial spell at the tail end of last season. A Wales youth international, Collins made 12 appearances for Fulham's reserves last term but failed to break into the Premiership club's first team. But Swansea boss Roberto Martinez believes he has the potential to establish himself in League One.

STRIKER SCOTLAND SIGNS FOR SWANS 25-05-2007

Evening Post - GARETH VINCENT Swansea City have clinched the signing of Jason Scotland subject to the Trinidad & Tobago international gaining a work permit. Scotland will join for a nominal fee - thought to be as little as £15,000 - after agreeing a two-year Liberty Stadium contract. Swansea fought off competition from Scotland's old club, Dundee United, and Hibernian, while the likes of Birmingham, Southend, Hearts, Norwich and Leeds were also linked with the 28-year-old St Johnstone striker. And chairman Huw Jenkins believes Roberto Martinez has landed a player destined to become a firm crowd favourite at the Liberty. "I think he's somebody the public will enjoy watching," Jenkins said. "He's strong, quite quick and he scores goals. He also has something a bit different about him. He's not just a run-of-the-mill player and we really feel he will be a good addition." Scotland, who played in his homeland before heading to Britain four years ago, netted 26 times in the Scottish First Division last season. Part of the Trinidad & Tobago squad along with Swansea's Dennis Lawrence at last year's World Cup, he scored 52 goals in 106 starts north of the border. "Goalscorers are the most precious commodity in football and we've persuaded a quality striker to join us," Martinez said. "He has all-round ability which enables him to play in a number of roles. He has a magic touch and can make something out of nothing. "He's an exciting player who always entertains and attracts the crowds, and players like that are a rare breed." Although Scotland would have become a free agent in August, Swansea have settled on a fee to get the ball rolling on a new work permit application and to ensure he will play a full part in pre-season training. "We do feel in a sense that he should be a free transfer, but we've agreed to the fee to secure his release now," Jenkins added. "It was in everybody's interest to get the deal done because we felt we needed to push ahead with the work permit application. "We've started the process already and, hopefully, over the next couple of weeks we will be given a date when we can go and sort it out. "The fee we've agreed with St Johnstone and the terms we've agreed with the player all depend on a new work permit being granted, but we're optimistic that will happen." Jenkins indicated that Martinez is keen to add at least one more forward to his squad this summer, revealing: "It's an area he wants to put right." The chances of former loanee Darryl Duffy returning, however, look slim at present. It is understood Swansea are refusing to meet Hull's valuation for the Scot, who scored five times in five starts for Martinez's men at the tail end of last season.

Swans sign Scotland from Saints 25-05-2007

BBCi Jason Scotland has agreed a two-year deal with the Welsh club Swansea City have signed St Johnstone's Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland on a two-year deal, subject to a new work permit being granted. The 28-year-old scored 26 goals in 46 games for the Scottish club last term. The Swans have paid a nominal fee to secure Scotland's early release from his contract with the First Division side which was due to expire in August. SPL sides Hibernian, Dundee United and Hearts, plus Birmingham and Southend were all interested in Scotland. Swansea manager Roberto Martinez was delighted to announce the League One club's first new signing since the end of the season. "I'm not surprised that there has been a lot of interest in Jason from a number of clubs, especially as he was due to become a free agent in August," Martinez told the club website. "Goal-scorers are the most precious commodity in football and I believe we've persuaded a quality striker to join us. Jason Scotland is an exciting player who always entertains and attracts the crowds - and players like that are a rare breed Swans boss Roberto Martinez "He is a striker with all-round ability which will enable him to play in a number of roles that gives us different options. "Jason has a magic touch and can make something happen out of nothing. "He's an exciting player who always entertains and attracts the crowds - and players like that are a rare breed." Scotland will link up with T&T team-mate Dennis Lawrence at the Liberty Stadium, who had no hesitation in giving Martinez a glowing report about the striker. "Jason seems a very reliable character and if he's anything like Dennis he will be disciplined and a model pro. I'm really excited about working with him," Martinez added. Scotland started his career in Trinidad & Tobago with San Juan Jabloteh and Defence Force, the same team that Lawrence played for before making the move to Wrexham. Dundee United signed Scotland in August 2003 after impressing manager Ian McCall by scoring both goals for T&T in a 2-1 friendly win at Tannadice. He made an immediate impact by scoring five times in his first nine starts in the SPL before being forced to return to Trinidad in 2005 after his application for a work permit renewal was turned down. However, Scotland had an application to play for St Johnstone approved and did enough to warrant a place in Trinidad and Tobago's 2006 World Cup squad. Martinez, who still has strong links with former club Motherwell, has not ruled out dipping into the Scottish market again to strengthen his squad. The Swans have already been linked with moves for St Mirren's John Sutton and David van Zanten. Sutton is out of contract at the end of the season and has yet to agree terms with the Scottish Premier League side, although Falkirk are interested in the front man. Defender van Zanten has a year left on his contract.

FERRIE NOT SAILING TO LIBERTY - YET 23-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have denied reports they have signed Ferrie Bodde - but are in talks with the Dutch midfielder.And boss Roberto Martinez is also continuing negotiations with St Johnstone and Hull respectively over strikers Jason Scotland and Darryl Duffy. Reports in Holland claimed a deal was done for Bodde, who is keen to leave ADO Den Haag following their relegation from the Dutch top flight. It is understood Swansea will have to pay a fee in the region of £50,000 with add-ons depending on appearances for the 24-year-old, who was also a target for Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen. But chairman Huw Jenkins insists no deal has yet been agreed. "Reports saying we have signed Ferrie Bodde are wrong," he said. "Yes he is one of the targets we are working hard to try to secure and there are talks going on between the clubs and between the player and Roberto. "But as is the case with a number of other players we're interested in, nothing has been finalised yet." St Johnstone boss Owen Coyle yesterday claimed Swansea were the "frontrunners" in the chase for Trinidad & Tobago international Scotland, ahead of Dundee United among others. Jenkins added: "As with Ferrie Bodde, we are still speaking to the club and to the agent over that one. "Jason Scotland has a contract until August, which is quite unusual, and he would also need to renew his work permit before joining us, so there's a lot of work to be done if it is to happen. "We're talking to a lot of clubs and a lot of agents at present and it's the same sort of thing with Darryl Duffy. We're negotiating with his club and seeing what's going to happen." Jenkins said he was unsure whether Swansea wanted to add Scotland and Duffy to a forward arsenal already featuring Lee Trundle, Pawel Abbott and, for now at least, Bayo Akinfenwa. "You'll have to ask Roberto that one," he added. "My job is to pursue various avenues to see if deals can be done and then it's down to Roberto. "It's hard work. A lot of players are keeping their options open and waiting to see what deal they can get. And as usual everybody is telling us one thing and then doing something else. That's the just the way it is. "If you gave into everybody and agreed to their demands, they would all sign right away. "But it's about getting the right player for us at the right price, whether that's a fee or his wage demands. That's all part of negotiating and that's where we are at the moment. "It takes time, but having the squad finalised by the end of June is realistic target. We should get most things done by then."

Swans swoop for Bodde 22-05-2007

By Gerrit van Leeuwen - SkySports Swansea City have won the race to sign Ferry Bodde, according to co-owner John van Zweden. The 24-year-old midfielder is keen to embark on a fresh challenge after failing to help ADO Den Haag retain their top-flight status. Aberdeen failed with a bid to lure Bodde to the Granite City and this allowed The Swans to jump to the head of the queue. Talks have taken place in recent days and Van Zweden has told Algemeen Dagblad a deal has been agreed. The Swans will pay £50,000 to ADO, but the fee could rise by a further £30,000 if he makes 50 appearances for the Welsh club. Swansea have also agreed to play a friendly with ADO in Holland this summer. Scott Evans and Kerry Morgan, two of Swansea's most promising youngsters, have joined Swedish side Ostersund on loan for five weeks in order to boost their fitness levels and match awareness.

FITNESS BOOST FOR INJURED TRIO 22-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have received a triple boost with the news that Darren Way, Owain Tudur Jones and Bayo Akinfenwa should be fully fit early next season.The trio of long-term casualties will continue rehabilitation work throughout the summer and Swansea are optimistic they will all be playing again by September at the latest. Way has managed only 17 appearances since arriving in a £150,000 deal from Yeovil back in January 2006 thanks to a long-standing shin complaint, while Tudur Jones played just five times last season because of career-threatening knee trouble. Akinfenwa, who is out of contract next month but has been offered a new deal, has not played since breaking his leg in February. "The view on all three of them is very optimistic," said Swansea physio Richie Evans. "Owain has been out to America to see the specialist, Dr (Richard) Steadman, and he was really happy with the condition of the knee. "He is now concentrating on a strengthening programme and is coming along quite nicely. "We will start him running at the start of pre-season and a realistic target for him to be playing again is late August or early September. "I'm confident that we've cracked the problem after sending Owain out to America, and the situation is similar with Darren. "His problem stems back to his Yeovil days and we were just unlucky to catch him when we did. "The injury has baffled everybody, but as with Owain, I believe we have now finally got to the bottom of it. "Darren is a quality player and hopefully now he will have the chance to show what an asset he can be to this club. "His running programme starts later this week and he should be back playing around the same time as Owain. "Bayo is also looking at September. "He came off the crutches a week ago and he will start running in three weeks' time. ''He's already working very hard in the gym and the consultant is very optimistic we'll have a positive outcome." Three more of last season's long-termers are now officially off the injured list. Garry Monk (cruciate ligament), Darren Pratley and Steve Watt (both shoulder) will be ready to go come the start of pre-season training. Shaun MacDonald will also play a full part after struggling through the spring with a variety of muscle injuries. "Shaun's still maturing, so he's working on his strength and conditioning throughout the summer," Evans added. If he can agree a new Swansea deal, Watt could have a spell on loan with Scottish First Division side Hamilton Academicals. Teenage striker Chris Jones may also be on his way north to gain first-team experience. Swansea have an unofficial link-up with the Accies thanks to assistant manager Graeme Jones, who was their No. 2 before joining Roberto Martinez in Wales. Norwich City are the latest club to be linked with Swansea target Jason Scotland. "A club at the top of League One in England is interested while a Championship club have also said they would like to talk to Jason," said the striker's agent, Mike Berry.

MARTINEZ TURNING TO SPANISH MARKETS 21-05-2007

Evening Post - GARETH VINCENT Roberto Martinez looks certain to add a Spanish flavour to Swansea City's squad this summer after making two scouting trips to his homeland last week.Swansea's manager twice jetted out to the Continent to check on possible new recruits, even watching a whopping four games in one day as part of his player search. And Martinez believes the success of past imports at Swansea shows the value of looking abroad. The likes of Ante Rajkovic and Jimmy Hadziabdic were huge Vetch Field favourites during the glory days of the early 1980s, while more recent overseas hits include Giovanni Savarese, Willy Gueret and Martinez himself. "The foreigners who have come to Swansea City have always done well," Martinez said. "They have brought something different to the team and the club and I'm certainly not going to look only at the UK market. "The Spanish market is a fantastic one if you target the right players and that's something I am looking to do. "I'm talking about getting professionals in, players who have the right attitude and the hunger to succeed. "You can find those players in Spain and also in France, Italy and Holland." Martinez also believes the foreign market often offers better value for money than can be found on these shores. But he is keen to stress that Swansea's dressing room will not be taken over by non-British players next season. "You have to get the right balance," the former Real Zaragoza youngster added. "It's important to recognise where we are strong already, and I already I have a squad which is strong in many aspects. "What I am looking to do is add to that squad to make it stronger."

Martinez looks north for new blood 20-05-2007

Peter Shuttleworth, Wales on Sunday ROBERTO Martinez hopes a double Scotch will help Swansea City toast promotion next season. The Liberty Stadium boss is close to confirming a link-up between Swansea and Scottish rivals Hamilton Academicals and Motherwell. The ambitious League One club has already agreed tie-ups with Swedish Third Division club Ostersund and Dutch side Den Haag. Now Martinez wants to tap into the bargain Scottish market after insisting he will not be held to ransom for over-priced English-based players. The Spaniard is already chasing St Johnstone's Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland and St Mirren pair John Sutton - younger brother of ex-England striker Chris Sutton - and David van Zanten, an ex-Celtic full-back. And he's weighing up the possibility of sharing playing resources with Motherwell, despite watching his former club lose to St Mirren at Fir Park last weekend. Hamilton Accies, for whom Swans' assistant boss Graeme Jones is a former favourite, are also on his radar as he looks to take the Swans' influence north of the border. "I have a special relationship with Motherwell, while Graeme is close to Hamilton, but I wouldn't class the link as an official tie-up, more like a footballing friendship," said Martinez. "The Scottish market is thriving and more affordable than the English league and it's something the club should tap into. "We need our talented young players to play competitive football against men, and in the reserve game they just don't get that. "A tie-up with Motherwell and Hamilton would allow the youngsters to go out on loan to the Scots, play against experienced men and develop. It can only be a benefit for Swansea City." Martinez has been quick to establish a relationship between the clubs, and an Accies' youth team has already visited Swansea to play their youth side. Swansea's rookie striker Chris Jones could be the first man heading north of the border to gain match sharpness and first-team action with the Accies next season when fellow youngsters Scott Evans and Kerry Morgan return from loan spells with Ostersund.

Martinez looks north of the border 20-05-2007

Peter Shuttleworth, Wales on Sunday ROBERTO Martinez hopes a double Scotch will help Swansea City toast promotion next season. The Liberty Stadium boss is close to confirming a link-up between Swansea and Scottish rivals Hamilton Academicals and Motherwell. The ambitious League One club has already agreed tie-ups with Swedish Third Division club Ostersund and Dutch side Den Haag. Now Martinez wants to tap into the bargain Scottish market after insisting he will not be held to ransom for over-priced English-based players. The Spaniard is already chasing St Johnstone's Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland and St Mirren pair John Sutton - younger brother of ex-England striker Chris Sutton - and David van Zanten, an ex-Celtic full-back. And he's weighing up the possibility of sharing playing resources with Motherwell, despite watching his former club lose to St Mirren at Fir Park last weekend. Hamilton Accies, for whom Swans' assistant boss Graeme Jones is a former favourite, are also on his radar as he looks to take the Swans' influence north of the border. "I have a special relationship with Motherwell, while Graeme is close to Hamilton, but I wouldn't class the link as an official tie-up, more like a footballing friendship," said Martinez. "The Scottish market is thriving and more affordable than the English league and it's something the club should tap into. "We need our talented young players to play competitive football against men, and in the reserve game they just don't get that. "A tie-up with Motherwell and Hamilton would allow the youngsters to go out on loan to the Scots, play against experienced men and develop. It can only be a benefit for Swansea City." Martinez has been quick to establish a relationship between the clubs, and an Accies' youth team has already visited Swansea to play their youth side. Swansea's rookie striker Chris Jones could be the first man heading north of the border to gain match sharpness and first-team action with the Accies next season when fellow youngsters Scott Evans and Kerry Morgan return from loan spells with Ostersund.

OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE STARS WITH WYNDHAM 18-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City are launching a members club which will give fans the chance to meet former players at every home game next season.Bar '81 will be hosted by Wyndham Evans, a Swansea great who played throughout the club's climb from Division Four to the top flight. Evans will be joined by other members of the famous Swansea side which soared through the divisions, clinching the ultimate promotion in unforgettable style at Preston in 1981. Bar '81, which will be situated in the Liberty Stadium's Gnoll Lounge, will give members the opportunity to mix with past Swans stars before and after matches. Entry will be exclusive to members, with membership priced at £150 on top of your West Stand season ticket. Membership is limited to just 81 people. Anyone who joins before June 30 will receive a Swans replica shirt signed by manager Roberto Martinez.

WAITING ON ANSWERS 18-05-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez hopes to have the future of Swansea City's six out-of-contract players settled early next week.And the Swansea boss is optimistic Garry Monk, Izzy Iriekpen, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kris O'Leary, Kevin Austin and Steve Watt will all commit their futures to the club. The Evening Post understands certain players are not happy with the terms they have been offered. But while Martinez concedes they may be considering interest from other clubs, he believes they could all end up staying at the Liberty Stadium. "Everyone has had an offer now and the negotiations are still ongoing," he said. "Hopefully, between now and next Tuesday we will have some concrete news. "All the players are on frees now, but I have made it clear to all of them what I expect from them next season. "I hope they all realise how important they are going to be for me and how important they are going to be for Swansea City. "Of course the financial side is a separate matter. Normally when a player is out of contract he looks at the financial side of things and normally he will look elsewhere as well. "That's where we are at the moment, but I hope we can come to an agreement with all of them very soon." Martinez, meantime, has had positive reports from Sweden after youngsters Scott Evans and Kerry Morgan began loan spells with Ostersund. The duo, who could be followed by Watt or Shaun MacDonald depending on their fitness, flew out to Sweden earlier this week as part of a new link-up between Swansea and the Swedish third division side. "The experience has started working from day one," Martinez said. "Both Scott and Kerry have done very well in training and already they are starting to come out of their shells a little bit. "That's exactly what we wanted."

I WANT TO GET IT ALL SORTED OUT NOW 17-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City skipper Garry Monk is not looking for another club despite his future at the Liberty Stadium being up in the air.The 28-year-old has been offered a one-year deal by Roberto Martinez with the option of a further season. And while, Monk is not looking for another club the former Southampton defender will soon become a free agent. ''I want things sorted at Swansea before I consider anything else,'' Monk said. ''I'm sure that other clubs have spoken to my agent, but I haven't spoken to him about that at all. ''I have been offered a one-year contract with the option of another year and hopefully that can be sorted out soon.'' With five other players out of contract this summer - Izzy Iriekpen, Kevin Austin, Kristian O'Leary, Bayo Akinfenwa and Steve Watt - the skipper understands that it will take time for everyone to be sorted out. ''It is not frustrating because these things do take time,'' Monk said. ''With so many players out of contract at the same time it can take a couple of weeks to sort out. ''Of course, you want it to be sorted out as soon as possible.'' Monk spent most of last season in the treatment room after picking up a cruciate ligament injury at League One champions Scunthorpe in the second game of the campaign. The 28-year-old played a handful of games for the reserves before the end of the season and was on the bench for the penultimate match at Carlisle. Now that he is fit again, Monk is hoping that his first year as club captain will not be his last. ''I spoke to Roberto last week and I had a text from him earlier this week,'' Monk said. ''Hopefully we can meet before the end of the week.'' Last season's home and away shirts are now at a reduced price in the club shop. Next term's new home and away kits will be unveiled and will go on-sale before to the end of June. All £10 club shop vouchers issues to supporters who made the journey to Carlisle United must used by May 31.

Swansea's Jones close to return 17-05-2007

BBCi Swansea City midfielder Owain Tudur Jones is close to a comeback Swansea City youngster Owain Tudur Jones says he is finally over the knee injury that plagued him throughout last season. The talented Wales Under-21 midfielder was limited to just three league appearances for the Swans last season. But Jones, who recently returned from Colorado to see US surgeon Dr Richard Steadman, says he is close to a return. "I recently flew out to America for a scan on the knee and everything seems to be OK," said Jones. "I was lucky enough to see the doctor Richard Steadman again and things went well. "Due to everything that has happened and the weakness in the muscles around the knee I've developed a bit of tendonitis. It's been quite a lonely time and I can't wait to get back out there "But generally it is good news I think. The tendonitis is quite curable and I have to work hard now in the summer months and work on my thigh muscles so that they are strong enough to support the knee." Jones is determined not to rush back too soon considering his past problems, but he does hope to be running again by pre-season. He said: "I'll be in the gym most days over the summer and if all the strength work goes well, I'll be able to start running around the same sort of time everyone comes back from pre-season. "I'll probably do my own pre-season with the physio as it'll probably be a bit much to join in with the lads that soon. "But whether I'm back for the first game of the season or for September it doesn't really matter as long as everything is OK and that my legs are strong enough to support the knee." Jones also revealed his frustration at missing out on most of Swansea City's 2006/07 campaign - a season that saw them fall just short of the League One play-off zone. He said: "I can't stress how difficult it has been but the important thing is not to let it affect you too much. "I'm looking forward to playing football again and the daily training with the lads. It's been quite a lonely time and I can't wait to get back out there."

IRIEKPEN: MAKE ME AN OFFER 16-05-2007

Evening Post IZZY Iriekpen has claimed Swansea City's out-of-contract stars are still waiting for offers from the club as uncertainty continues over their futures. Iriekpen, one of six players who sees his current terms expire next month, was hoping to discover what is on the table at a meeting with Roberto Martinez today. And the central defender admits to some frustration over the way he has been handled. "I'm a little disappointed that they have left it lingering," Iriekpen said. "I've been at Swansea for four years. It's not as if they don't know me as a player or a person and I don't know why it takes so long to sort these things out. "I'm basically a free agent now. I'm still hopeful that something can be sorted out at Swansea, but I still don't know what's on offer. "It could be that (because of the delay) it ends up with both parties disappointed." Martinez indicated nine days ago that Garry Monk (pictured below), Kristian O'Leary, Steve Watt, Kevin Austin and Bayo Akinfenwa would all be offered the chance to stay at the Liberty Stadium. But as yet there is little sign of any of them putting pen to paper. "I've spoken to Bayo and he doesn't know what's going on," Iriekpen added. "I thought he might have been sorted out by now because of his injury, but I don't think anyone knows what's going on yet." Iriekpen, who turned 25 earlier this week, fell out with Kenny Jackett last season but was a regular starter under Martinez at the back end of the campaign. He was a target for Bournemouth during the January transfer window, and claims to be wanted by a clutch of sides now. "My agent tells me there is interest from a few clubs," he added. "But before I start looking at other offers I want to know what's happening at Swansea. "It's up to them now to hurry up and make their offer." Swansea, meantime, have been linked with a move for two more players currently operating north of the border. John Sutton and David van Zanten are both part of the St Mirren side who have just avoided relegation from the Scottish Premier League. Striker Sutton, the younger brother of former Blackburn star Chris, had an unhappy spell at Millwall earlier in his career, while Irishman van Zanten has mage a big impression of the left of St Mirren's defence since failing to make the grade at Celtic.

KIDS THE BIG TICKET WINNERS 16-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have announced a slight rise in season- ticket prices - but a new scheme means children can watch them for just £1 per game.After a reduction last year, adult season tickets have gone up by an average of £18 for the 2007-08 campaign - although they are still cheaper than in Swansea's maiden season at the Liberty Stadium. And under-16s can watch every league game next term for just £23 in the South 'Family' Stand. Up to four children can take advantage of the cut-price deal per one full-paying adult. "The offer follows on from last season's successful 'Fans of the Future' initiatives," explained Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins. "We are fully committed to attracting more families and young people to the Liberty Stadium. "We want the Liberty packed to the rafters with passionate Jacks giving Roberto Martinez their full support." While there is an increase in adult prices - matchday tickets are up £1 - season-ticket and matchday prices will remain the same for senior citizens, students, under-16s in the East and West Stands and disabled supporters. "It was an exciting end to the 2006-07 season and the board of directors were thrilled with the level of support from the fans," Jenkins added. "An average attendance of over 12,700 was one of the main reasons we came so close to achieving our dream. "Now I think everyone is looking forward to Roberto's first full season in charge where we can go that extra step and secure promotion to the Championship. "To give him and the squad every chance, we have made sure that our season-ticket and matchday prices are once again exceptional value." Season tickets go on sale a week today from the Liberty ticket office (10am to 6pm). Current season-ticket holders will have until the close of business on June 30 to secure their existing seat. Existing season-ticket holders will receive an application form in the post next week and forms will also be available at the Liberty next Wednesday. Non-season-ticket holders who would like an application form posted out should email info@swanseacityfc.co . uk or call 08700 400004. To qualify for the £23 season ticket, children must be under 16 as of August 1, 2007, and the ticket must be bought before July 31. Senior citizens must be 65 or over on August 1, 2007. Students must be over 16 and in full-time education, while you must be in receipt of disability living allowance at the higher rate to qualify for a disabled discount

Swans close to Scotland capture 16-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY were last night closing in on the capture of Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland. Though Swans boss Roberto Martinez poured cold water on a possible deal last week, sources in Scotland are claiming that the St Johnstone striker could arrive in South Wales by the end of the week. It is understood that Swansea would pay a nominal fee for the 28-year-old who is contracted to the Perth club until the end of August. Martinez insisted he had “only been getting information” about the player when Swansea’s interest in Scotland was revealed last week. Scotland scored 26 goals last season and would provide the extra pace up front that Martinez is seeking. “He is a player that we have been watching for quite a while and I’m still to make my mind up as to whether he would be a good Swansea City player,” said Martinez. Meanwhile, the Swans’ bid to snare Scottish striker Darryl Duffy could be set to receive the luck of the Irish. The Swans are locked in a three-way fight to land the Hull City striker with Hartlepool and Hibernian also keen on the 23-year-old’s services. Newly-promoted Hartlepool are confident they can tempt Duffy – who bagged five goals in 10 games for them in a two-month loan stay before the New Year – back to Victoria Park after a similarly successful end-of-season spell at Swansea. Hartlepool boss Danny Wilson is a big admirer of the Glaswegian and has already tabled a £125,000 bid, but the former Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday manager could be on his way after being linked with the Northern Ireland vacancy. Wilson moved quickly yesterday to distance himself from the role vacated by new Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez, but sources in Belfast suggest that he is the Irish Football Association’s first choice. Swansea want to sign Duffy – who has 12 months left on his Hull contract – on a permanent basis after he grabbed five goals in as many starts as Roberto Martinez’ men just missed out on the play-offs. But Hull are playing hardball over a transfer fee and Swansea might have to spend most of their summer budget to land the Scotland U21 striker.

Swansea honours its Gentle Giant 15-05-2007

BBCi A memorial to Swansea football great John Charles has been unveiled at the Liberty Stadium as his home city club played their last game of the season. Viewed by many as the best player to have come from Wales, the former Leeds and Juventus star died three years ago. The bust on a granite plinth with a plate detailing his career will stand as a permanent tribute at the ground. Family and friends of the man known as the Gentle Giant were at the ceremony, along with invited guests. It took place before the Swans' final League One game against Blackpool, although the home club were disappointed to see their promotion play-off hopes disappear in a 6-3 defeat. Charles signed for Swansea at the age of 15, but moved to Leeds United in 1949. After a successful spell in Yorkshire, he joined Juventus of Turin and between 1957 and 1962 won three Italian League titles and one Italian Cup. This bust will allow people to remember a formidable player and an amazing man Chris Holley, Swansea lord mayor It was during his spell in Italy that he picked up the nickname Il Buono Gigante - The Gentle Giant - as he was never booked or sent off in 155 appearances for the club. He won 38 Welsh caps and played for his country in the 1958 World Cup - the last time Wales qualified for the finals. He died aged 72 in February 2004. The memorial was commissioned by Swansea Council and follows tributes in Leeds which have included naming the West Stand at Elland Road in his honour. Swansea lord mayor Chris Holley said: "John Charles was one of the greatest sportsmen Swansea and Wales has ever produced. "It's very fitting that his magnificent career is marked with a permanent memorial and this bust will allow people to remember a formidable player and an amazing man."

Swans close to Scotland capture 15-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY were last night closing in on the capture of Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland. Though Swans boss Roberto Martinez poured cold water on a possible deal last week, sources in Scotland are claiming that the St Johnstone striker could arrive in South Wales by the end of the week. It is understood that Swansea would pay a nominal fee for the 28-year-old who is contracted to the Perth club until the end of August. Martinez insisted he had “only been getting information” about the player when Swansea’s interest in Scotland was revealed last week. Scotland scored 26 goals last season and would provide the extra pace up front that Martinez is seeking. “He is a player that we have been watching for quite a while and I’m still to make my mind up as to whether he would be a good Swansea City player,” said Martinez. Meanwhile, the Swans’ bid to snare Scottish striker Darryl Duffy could be set to receive the luck of the Irish. The Swans are locked in a three-way fight to land the Hull City striker with Hartlepool and Hibernian also keen on the 23-year-old’s services. Newly-promoted Hartlepool are confident they can tempt Duffy – who bagged five goals in 10 games for them in a two-month loan stay before the New Year – back to Victoria Park after a similarly successful end-of-season spell at Swansea. Hartlepool boss Danny Wilson is a big admirer of the Glaswegian and has already tabled a £125,000 bid, but the former Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday manager could be on his way after being linked with the Northern Ireland vacancy. Wilson moved quickly yesterday to distance himself from the role vacated by new Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez, but sources in Belfast suggest that he is the Irish Football Association’s first choice. Swansea want to sign Duffy – who has 12 months left on his Hull contract – on a permanent basis after he grabbed five goals in as many starts as Roberto Martinez’ men just missed out on the play-offs. But Hull are playing hardball over a transfer fee and Swansea might have to spend most of their summer budget to land the Scotland U21 striker.

MARTINEZ SETS UP SWEDISH LINK FOR SWANS 14-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City will send players on loan to Sweden this summer before spending a week training there themselves in pre-season.Teenagers Scott Evans and Kerry Morgan are to have spells with Swedish third division side Ostersund, while Steve Watt or Shaun MacDonald could follow them depending on their fitness. And boss Roberto Martinez, who is friendly with the club's chairman, has revealed that Swansea's squad will travel to Scandinavia as well as Holland as part of their preparations for the new League One campaign. ''The season runs differently to ours in Sweden, with matches from April to the end of June and then August to October,'' Martinez explained. ''These players will go out there because they've not had enough football. ''They will be above the standard out there, but the club is very professional, the pitches are beautiful and it will be a great experience for our young players. ''Going abroad will help their progression and the competitive football will get them ready for our pre-season.'' After reporting back on June 29, Swansea will jet out to Sweden for a training camp in early July. The trip will culminate with a friendly against Ostersund to mark the opening of their new 5,000-capacity stadium. Swansea then return to Wales before playing four friendlies in Holland in late July and early August. ''The place where we're going is where Sweden's skiing world champions are based and the facilities are fantastic,'' Martinez added. ''It's also 1,000 metres above sea level, so it will be great for our players to train out there.''

United face tug of war 14-05-2007

Yorkshire Evening Post SWANSEA CITY are threatening to steal Leeds United target Jamie Mullan after offering the winger a three-year deal. Mullan and Aaron Burns, two former Manchester United trainees, were invited for trials at Leeds' Thorp Arch last week, and both players are believed to have impressed. Mullan and Burns are available on free transfers having been released by Sir Alex Ferguson, but Swansea are understood to have moved for Mullan's signature by offering him a long-term contract. The 19-year-old winger completed a successful trial with the Welsh club before accepting his opportunity with Leeds, and United's uncertain financial position may delay any plans to make a competitive offer to Mullan. Dennis Wise, meanwhile, is waiting for a response from Manuel Rui Marques after confirming his intention to keep the Angolan defender at Elland Road next year. Marques' deal runs out this summer and Leeds are set to hand him a 12-month extension following his contribution since January. But the 29-year-old is also expected to receive outside interest during the close season, and he is free to talk to other clubs with his contract set to expire. United have confirmed that experienced defenders Hayden Foxe and Robbie Elliott will leave Elland Road this summer after reaching the end of their short-term deals. Foxe was signed by Leeds at the beginning of the season having recovered from a career-threatening foot injury, but he was restricted to 12 league starts and never secured a regular starting place under Wise or Kevin Blackwell. Elliott arrived at United from Sunderland during the January transfer window, but a torn hamstring forced him to spend almost two months on the sidelines. His opportunities were limited further by the arrival on loan of left-back Michael Gray from Blackburn. The pair have followed striker Ian Moore through the exit door at Elland Road but American winger Eddie Lewis will remain with United for another season after activating an appearance-related clause his contract. Lewis featured in 41 league fixtures during the 2006-07 Championship term, more than any other United player. lPreston boss Paul Simpson is adamant North End have received no offers for England striker David Nugent. The 22-year-old has admitted he will look to leave Deepdale for a Barclays Premiership club this summer following Preston's failure to reach the play-offs. Simpson said: "We're not trying to sell him. It's a case of if somebody wants to buy him, that's the thing."

SWANS HEAD RACE TO SIGN DUFFY 11-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City are favourites to pip Hibernian and Hartlepool to the signature of Darryl Duffy - if they can agree a transfer fee with Hull.Boss Roberto Martinez has also admitted an interest in St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland, and is being tipped to move for Dutch midfielder Ferrie Bodde. Duffy is keen to make a permanent move to South Wales after scoring five times in five starts during a loan spell at the back end of the season. But Martinez has conceded Hull's asking price could be a stumbling block. The Tigers paid a club-record £250,000 for Duffy 18 months ago, and are said to want to recoup at least half that sum now. But the Championship club's hand could be forced as the Scot has only a year to run on his KC Stadium contract. "Hibernian and Hartlepool have made offers for Darryl, while we are still in negotiations," Martinez said. "Darryl doesn't want to listen to anyone apart from Swansea City, so from a player point of view we're in a strong position. "But we're not going to pay unrealistic money for someone who is out of contract in a year and who we'd be able to talk to in six months. "Hopefully we will be able to agree something with Hull, but at the moment their asking price is sky high." Martinez was more coy over Scotland, a Trinidad & Tobago international who has starred in the Scottish First Division this season. The 28-year-old is contracted with St Johnstone until August, but is expected to move on this summer and is being linked with a host of clubs including Leeds and Dundee United. "We want to improve every day, we're keeping an eye on potential Swansea City players and he's a player we've followed," Martinez said. "But there is a lot of interest in him, from Birmingham, Southend and other clubs, so we'll see where we are over the next few weeks. "We are keeping an eye on him, but that is the case with many possible targets." One of those is thought to be Bodde, who is reportedly available for a fee of £70,000. The 25-year-old plays for Dutch side ADO Den Haag - a club Swansea have links with through associate director John Van Zweden - who have just been relegated from the top flight in Holland. Southend, meantime, have offered a three-year contract to Billericay winger Chris Whelpdale, another player who Swansea have been tracking. And League Two side Peterborough have offered the highly-rated youngster a four-year deal.

MARTINEZ: MY TARGET IS TO WIN ALL 46 GAMES 11-05-2007

Evening Post Almost a week after Swansea City were condemned to another season in League One, soccer writer GARETH VINCENT talks to Roberto Martinez about their play-off near miss, plans for the summer and what lies ahead next year. Gv: With the dust settled, how does it feel to have missed out on the play-offs? RM: In a way obviously it's a disappointment. I always want to win and getting into the play-offs was our aim. But the way we missed out makes me very proud because we tried everything. Even in the Blackpool game, I would have preferred to lose 6-3 trying everything than to win 3-2 and still finishing seventh. Oldham had to fail for us to get in and they did their job. GV: Given the situation when you arrived, you must have felt you couldn't have done much more. RM: You look at what you can affect - the responsibility the players take and their attitude. In every department they gave the reaction I expected, which was pleasing. Some of the football we played was very satisfactory. It was the way we want to play. GV: After the progress of recent seasons, Swansea have finished a place lower in the league ladder than last year. What would you put that down to? RM: It's hard for me to answer that because I've been here less than a third of the season. I'm looking forward and trying to become better on a daily basis. We need to try to find that progression over the next few weeks. We have got more points than last season so in a way you could say we progressed, but then we're not in the play-offs. Really, though, everything is directed to next season now. GV: Many Swansea fans have said in recent weeks that they wish you had returned to the club a little earlier in the season. Do you wish that too now? RM: In football there are many things you cannot affect and you're wasting your energy by concentrating on them. I had the period I had, we tried absolutely everything, and now we must look forward to next season. GV: Given a couple more weeks, though, do you think you would have made it? RM: Well we were very close weren't we? It came down to goal difference and I said before Brighton we were playing for four points. That fourth point was the deciding one, because we would never have lost when we led Blackpool 3-2 in other circumstances. Maybe we didn't expect to be fighting Oldham if I'm honest. They were top when we started out and it was difficult to catch them. We went above Tranmere and Carlisle, teams that were in similar situations to us. We closed the gap well on Oldham, but not quite well enough. GV: How excited are you about having a full campaign in which to make your mark? RM: Very excited. The mentality of the club is geared towards playing the football we want to play and that's my aim. I want to get promoted, but we need to do it in style and the way I want it. We need promotion in the Swansea City style. GV: Is the top two the target or is that asking too much given that it's your first season in charge? RM: Looking at the season you need to look at every single game. If we're at our best in all 46 games we'll be there where we deserve to be. My target is to win all 46 games. After that we'll see where we are. Promotion is a big word, but that's what we want. If it comes via the play-offs we'll have to accept that. In a season many things can happen. The clearest example of that is Chelsea. They have spent nearly £500million and it's not enough to win a title, so there are reasons why you can't achieve your aim. All I want is a successful team that everyone in Swansea is proud of. I'm sure if we all pull in the same direction we will achieve the aim we want. GV: How much work does your squad need this summer? RM: In a way because of the situation we're in there's a lot of work to do. Look at our form in the last 12 games and never mind promotion, it's Championship form. But because of the situation we're in there's a lot of work to do. There are certain departments that need to be covered. We have got a massive squad but it's not big enough. It sounds stupid but it's the truth. GV: Will people be going in and out? RM: They have to. It's the nature of football. Some players will believe they have had their time and they want to move on, others will be excited about putting problems they have had in the past behind them and moving into a new season. Everything will be done for the good of the club. We have been working really hard behind the scenes and we have a good period now to plan. Everything is under way - we're not forcing things - and I just hope that come June 29, when the players come back, everything is ready and set. GV: How many signings do you hope to make before then? RM: We have a massive squad and it's very difficult to predict. The financial situation is key. We need changes, that's all I'll say for now. GV: What chance you having a game next season? RM: I must say it's hard to watch football at the Liberty Stadium! I'm really looking forward to playing in certain games next season where I can help the young players. There are games where you need to refresh things. Maybe the FAW Premier Cup or the Johnstone's Paint Trophy depending on how busy our fixture list is at the time. But I know you cannot play in the first team and manage at the same time. It's impossible. GV: No League One games for you then? RM: No. GV: Unless there's an injury crisis? RM: Hopefully there won't be. I'll be available and I'll be pushing, but hopefully whoever is in front of me will have their place tied down. GV: You were always known as a fit player. Are you happy with the fitness of the squad or is that something that needs to be addressed? RM: I have been very happy with the way squad have worked since I arrived. The way we plan for a season you need to try to peak at certain times and we're going for plan that, but the attitude has been fantastic so I'm not worried. GV: In a nutshell, where do you think Swansea need to improve? RM: Our environment can be dangerous because of the expectations we have got. We are a massive club in League One and sometimes that can work against you. Nottingham Forest have had the same problem and Leeds may have it too next season. If we react the way we have in the last 12 weeks, then we have a recipe for success. If you can push all your energy in the same direction, be supportive and fight to get the best out of the team, it can be a huge help. But when the chemistry is not there between the fans and the players it can be a problem. I'm very proud of the way our fans reacted in the last 12 games of this season and I hope things will stay as they have been. On the pitch there are three departments where we need to improve. That will give us a better chance to achieve. GV: Which three departments? RM: We need a bit of pace in wide areas. We've missed that. We need a fast player up front with a goalscoring record and a playmaker. We're not covering those departments with the squad we've got and we should cover them. Sometimes you use them and sometimes you don't, but you need to have the option. GV: How hard a division do you think League One will be next year? RM: I'm excited about it. There are always one or two surprise teams in the lower leagues in the UK, like Scunthorpe or Colchester. Then you have the glamorous teams, like Nottingham Forest if they stay down and Leeds. It's a fantastic league to look forward to. You have to be very adaptable to be successful because you have to play a potential Premiership game against Forest or Leeds or you need to work hard to get a result at Hartlepool, Swindon or Walsall. GV: Lastly, are you enjoying life as a manager? GV: Yes I am because this is Swansea City. I feel proud to be manager here. There is nothing like playing, but I really enjoy my position. I've always loved football and I love Swansea City, so it's a great combination.

REMEMBER MY DAD ROBBIE, SAYS LUKE 11-05-2007

Evening Post Robbie James's son has started a campaign to have a memorial to his dad placed at the Liberty Stadium.A statue of Swansea City great Ivor Allchurch stands outside the club's new home, while a bronze of Wales's greatest ever footballer, John Charles, was unveiled at the ground last weekend. Now Luke James, who is nearly 17, hopes his father will also be remembered. Robbie, who was born and bred in the city, was a true Swansea legend, playing nearly 600 games for the club and figuring throughout their climb from Division Four to the old top flight. Robbie, who was capped 47 times by Wales, also played for Stoke, Queens Park Rangers, Leicester Bradford and Cardiff. He died aged just 40 after collapsing playing for Llanelli in 1998. "As I've got older, I've started to think about my dad more," said Luke, who will put the first £100 into any fund set up to remember Robbie. "I'm coming to terms with it all now and something I would love to see would be some kind of memorial to my dad. "People tell me all the time what a legend he was and how Swansea's fans used to chant his name. "But it would mean so much to me if instead of me being told, there was a bronze or a statue or something like that at the Liberty Stadium." Luke, who lives in Cowbridge and plays in midfield for the Pencoed Football Academy, added: "When you win something you get a trophy to prove it. "I would love to see something to show what a good player my dad was. "It would fill me with pride and I hope it would be popular with Swansea's fans too." Alan Curtis, another Swansea great who played with Robbie, has thrown his support behind Luke's idea. "I'd be all for that," Curtis said. "Robbie was one of the best who ever played for Swansea, and he always will be whoever comes along in the future. "To remember him would be a fantastic idea." And Swans fan Ugo Vallario, who runs the official travel club, has also backed the plan. "Whenever people ring me up and ask who my favourite Swans player is, I always say Alan Curtis and Robbie James," he said. "I think thousands of other fans would say the same thing, and to remember him would be a good idea."

Jenkins backing boss Martinez 11-05-2007

Teamtalk Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins insists he was not surprised to see Roberto Martinez become an immediate success - but expects more next season. The former Swans midfielder, returning to the Liberty Stadium in the wake of Kenny Jackett's shock decision to quit in February, picked the club up from a run of five losses in six games to within one win of the play-off places. It was a performance that did not shock Jenkins, but rather made the Swans supremo keen to see what else is around the corner. Jenkins said: "Roberto has performed very, very well. It wasn't easy for him to come in cold like he did, but he did very well. Was I surprised? No, I can't say I was. "I want to see if he can sustain it. I'm sure there's more to come from him. "My ambitions for this club are the same as anyone else's. I want to see us promoted and I think we have the squad and structure in place to do it. I hope we can challenge for it next season."

NO CASH TO SPLASH 11-05-2007

Evening Post Huw Jenkins has warned that Swansea City will not embark on another spending spree this summer after having their fingers burnt in the past.Swansea have splashed the cash in the last three transfer windows, shelling out £625,000 in January 2006, £375,000 in the last close season and another £350,000 in January this year. And though £600,000 was recouped on Sam Ricketts and Rory Fallon along the way, Jenkins has braced Swansea's fans for some belt-tightening as Roberto Martinez remoulds his squad for a fresh crack at League One. "We have spent a lot of money, particularly in January last year, and we don't feel we've had just reward for it," he said. "I think you can expect a far more cautious approach to our budgeting and spending this summer and I think our supporters would want to see that. "We need to make sure anybody we pay money for is very definitely the right player and will do a job for us. "We're not going to throw our money around as we have done and not get the right reward for it." Jenkins is not suggesting that there will be no money available to Martinez, who could point out that the fees paid out in the past were on predecessor Kenny Jackett's orders, not his. But Jenkins believes that whoever their manager, Swansea can learn from their experiences in League One over the last two seasons. "Look at the sides who have won promotion, Colchester, Southend, Scunthorpe, they have done it with hungry players who want success," he added. "Even Bristol City haven't spent that much money despite selling Leroy Lita for £1million and David Cotterill for £2million in the last couple of years. We have to take our hat off to Gary Johnson for the job he's done. "All these clubs have moulded players with reasonable ability into a team who throughout the season have shown the hunger that is needed. "It's not easy to spot players like that, but maybe we have to adjust our thinking. "We know what we've tried over the last 18 months and maybe we've got to judge players a bit better."

Akinfenwa wants Swans stay 10-05-2007

By James Evans - SkySports Adebayo Akinfenwa has told skysports.com he wants to stay at Swansea City and has no plans to leave the Liberty Stadium. The 24-year-old hit-man, who is out of contract this summer, has been offered a new deal by Swans boss Roberto Martinez. Akinfenwa missed the last three months of the season after breaking his leg against Scunthorpe United back in February and is grateful there is a new deal on offer. "There is a new deal on the table which I'm grateful for, and I believe the negotiations are going on this week," he told skysports.com. "I hope that something can be worked out as I've always wanted to stay here as it's a fantastic club with real potential. "My agent is sitting down with the chairman so I'm sure both parties can reach agreement which means I can stay at Swansea. I'm not interested in going anywhere else." Akinfenwa was unable to assist his team-mates secure a play-off place, but believes his colleagues can get over the 6-3 loss to Blackpool that saw them finish outside the top six. "It's just one of those things in football, and most of the lads are strong enough to put it behind them," he continued. "The mood isn't as bad as you may necessarily think. "People are looking forward to next season where we can concentrate on a first full season under Roberto Martinez, and hopefully make it to the Championship."

OAKES CONFIDENT HE WILL LAND A NEW CLUB 09-05-2007

Evening Post - GARETH VINCENT Andy Oakes could be set for a move to the Continent after his unhappy spell at Swansea City came to an end.The former Bolton goalkeeper (inset) was released by Roberto Martinez on Monday having made just five Swansea appearances in a season-long stay at the Liberty Stadium. But Oakes has not been left in the lurch - Belgian side Royal Antwerp, Tranmere and Rotherham are among the sides who have already declared an interest in his signature. "There are six or eight clubs who have been in contact already," Oakes said. "Tranmere and Rotherham have been in touch, and there are also a couple abroad which could be interesting, the main one being Antwerp. "I didn't know about them until I met the gaffer (Roberto Martinez) on Monday and he told me. "About half the clubs had made contact before the gaffer and I spoke, but he then informed that most of the phone calls he has had about players were about me." Oakes says goodbye to Swansea having had little chance to stake his claim for the first-team keeper's jersey. He played just five times after joining on a free from Walsall, including one game in the Football League Trophy and another filling in when Willy Gueret was out injured. The writing was on the wall for Oakes when, after caretaker boss Kevin Nugent picked him at Yeovil in February, Martinez dropped him for his first game in charge. Despite fans' criticism of Gueret, he would not get an opportunity under the Spaniard. "I don't really feel as though I've been given a proper chance," Oakes added. "I did my best when I played. I tried to win when for Swansea and we won three out of my five games, so hopefully that contributed to what was almost a successful season. "It was tough to take when I was left out after Yeovil, but if I'm honest I expected it to happen. The manager knew Willy from his previous time at the club so it was no great shock when he put him in." Oakes, 30, could now link up with Antwerp, where Englishman Warren Joyce is the manager. "Football-wise, I'll be looking to cancel my year at Swansea from my memory," he added. "But as for the place and the people we've met, well I'm sure we'll remain good friends with them in the future. "And I hope Swansea do well. I saw the gaffer comparing them to Chelsea and Manchester United in the paper, and he's not far wrong. "It's now a question of getting the right people in place to make it happen for them, whether it be on the pitch or upstairs." Tommy Williams, meanwhile, has revealed he had his heart set on leaving Swansea as early March amid interest from an unnamed club, believed to be Nottingham Forest. Williams was the only other player released by Martinez on Monday. And he said: "We are talking about a massive club coming in for me during the January transfer window. "I didn't know that at the time, but then they came in for me again in March and I found out about their earlier interest. "I didn't know if Swansea were going to offer me a new contract, so I obviously had to think of myself and my family and told the club I wanted to leave. "It would have been an exciting move going to such a big club, but there were only six weeks of the season left and Swansea didn't want to let me go. "I think Swansea wanted some money for me, which I thought was strange as I wasn't in the team at the time." Williams, signed from Gillingham for £50,000 in January 2006, has enjoyed an impressive season despite needing two hernia operations. But his fitness troubles saw Marcos Painter take over as Swansea's first-choice left-back and Martinez does not appear to have been a big fan. "I don't think Swansea were ever going to offer me new terms because they knew I had other irons in the fire," Williams added. "I was in and out of Roberto's office in about two minutes."

NEW DEALS ON TABLE FOR SWANS SIX 09-05-2007

Evening Post - GARETH VINCENT Swansea City are set to offer fresh terms to their six out-of-contract players by the end of the week.Chairman Huw Jenkins met with manager Roberto Martinez yesterday to discuss summer rebuilding plans. And Jenkins admits tabling offers to Garry Monk, Izzy Iriekpen, Kris O'Leary, Steve Watt, Bayo Akinfenwa and Kevin Austin is their first priority. "Roberto has made his thoughts clear to the players and it now comes down to whether we can agree financial terms," he said. "He has a budget to work to, and you have to bear in mind that Roberto wants to bring a few new faces in this summer. "There's only so much money to go round, but our aim is to give everyone a fair offer. "We will try to do as much as we can this week. It's only fair that we talk to agents as quickly as we can to make sure everybody knows where we are. "After that it comes down to the players. "They have to look after their interests, we have to look after ours and we have to see if there's any common ground." Jenkins, meanwhile, has defended the club's policy in the wake of criticism from Martinez. The Spaniard said Swansea should not have been in a situation where eight players saw their contracts expire after last weekend's crucial game with Blackpool. "I can understand Roberto's viewpoint," he added. "It's not ideal having that uncertainty from a player or manager's point of view. "But on the other hand, if the manager wants to bring in new faces in the close season, there's got to be room for manoeuvre. "If you look around the country, there are hundreds of players out of contract because sometimes the only way clubs can change things round is by allowing it to happen. "It's worth remembering, too, that the players forced the issue in the first place with freedom of contract."

Local boy Joe makes full Swansea debut 09-05-2007

By Gordon Thomas - Western Telegraph RISING young local football star Joe Allen, made his full League One debut for Swansea City in Saturday's 6-3 home defeat against Blackpool. It has capped a brilliant season for the highly-rated 17-year-old who lives with his parents Stephen and Jane, in Narberth. Both were understandably thrilled to watch their son replace Andy Robinson, in the central midfield in the 75th minute at the Liberty Stadium. Joe didn't have long to impress boss Roberto Martinez, but he played with plenty of energy and zest in the heart of the Swans' midfield. However, it was a sad end of season for Roberto Martinez as Swansea City missed out on the League One play-offs after a nine-goal thriller defeat. Talented Joe, has had an impressive season featuring ten times for Wales U17s and captaining them twice against Denmark and Belarus. Impressive Joe was also called up to the national under-19 and under-21 squads. He should have given boss Martinez plenty to think about over the summer, and surely a full professional contract looming is not beyond the realms of possibility. Currently on a two-year scholarship with the Swans, Joe, has played at least 30 games for their Reserves. He has been involved at the Swans academy since the tender age of nine and was first spotted by local football scout Ray Evans. If Joe continues his current prolific progress then who knows what the future holds? This is brilliant news for any other young aspiring Pembrokeshire footballers - with talent, dedication and plenty of training, then footballing dreams can be achieved. Joe should be good enough in the future to win a full Wales cap and emulate local footballing stars Mark Delaney and Simon Davies, both of whom have made it to the top. Telegraph Sport would like to wish exciting footballing prospect Joe all the best for what certainly looks to be a bright future.

Swans face competition for Duffy 09-05-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY face competition for the signature of striker Darryl Duffy from newly-promoted Hartlepool United. The 23-year-old hotshot arrived at the Liberty Stadium on loan from Hull in March and has proved a big hit, netting five goals in five starts and taking the club to the verge of the League One play-offs in the process. Duffy was yesterday named Powerade player of the month for League One following his exploits at the Swans. Boss Roberto Martinez has made no secret of the fact he wants to make the deal permanent and it is believed Hull would let the player go. But The Tigers would want to recoup some of the £250,000 they paid for Duffy from Scottish side Falkirk back in January last year. The Western Mail understands a fee of £100,000 should be enough to secure the services of the striker who has a year left on his contact on Humberside. Swansea had looked favourites to capture the ex-Rangers man, with Duffy himself revealing he would like to sign for the club after Saturday’s final game of the season against Blackpool. But that process is set to become complicated with Hartlepool boss Danny Wilson, who is also a big fan of the striker, poised to launch his own attempt to land Duffy. The Scot was on loan at Hartlepool from November to January this season and fired five goals in 10 games. It is understood Wilson was keen to sign Duffy permanently in January, but was unable to afford the money wanted by Hull at that time. But with promotion to League One now secured – Hartlepool finished runners-up to champions Walsall – Wilson might have the necessary funds provided to sign Duffy. Hartlepool could also be in a more advantageous position to sign Duffy due to their closer proximity to his home town of Glasgow. It is believed Duffy is keen not to move too far away from the Scottish city where most of his family and friends are based. “Darryl met with Hull boss Phil Brown this week and it looks likely he’ll be told he’s not wanted at the club,” said a source close to Hull. “But Hull will want at least £100,000 to £150,000 to try to claw back some of the money they paid Falkirk for him. “He’s been a success at Swansea, but Danny Wilson is also a big fan and with promotion could have the money to come in with an offer. “Darryl’s quite a home-town boy and probably wouldn’t want to move too far away from Glasgow.” Duffy was signed by then-Tigers boss Peter Taylor in January 2006 after a successful spell for Falkirk in the Scottish Premier League. He was a regular for Hull at the start of this season, but paid the price for the Tigers’ poor start which led to them fighting relegation until recently. Martinez is set to start building his own side this summer and sees Duffy as an important element in mounting a serious promotion push next time.

Swans face competition for Duffy 09-05-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY face competition for the signature of striker Darryl Duffy from newly-promoted Hartlepool United. The 23-year-old hotshot arrived at the Liberty Stadium on loan from Hull in March and has proved a big hit, netting five goals in five starts and taking the club to the verge of the League One play-offs in the process. Duffy was yesterday named Powerade player of the month for League One following his exploits at the Swans. Boss Roberto Martinez has made no secret of the fact he wants to make the deal permanent and it is believed Hull would let the player go. But The Tigers would want to recoup some of the £250,000 they paid for Duffy from Scottish side Falkirk back in January last year. The Western Mail understands a fee of £100,000 should be enough to secure the services of the striker who has a year left on his contact on Humberside. Swansea had looked favourites to capture the ex-Rangers man, with Duffy himself revealing he would like to sign for the club after Saturday’s final game of the season against Blackpool. But that process is set to become complicated with Hartlepool boss Danny Wilson, who is also a big fan of the striker, poised to launch his own attempt to land Duffy. The Scot was on loan at Hartlepool from November to January this season and fired five goals in 10 games. It is understood Wilson was keen to sign Duffy permanently in January, but was unable to afford the money wanted by Hull at that time. But with promotion to League One now secured – Hartlepool finished runners-up to champions Walsall – Wilson might have the necessary funds provided to sign Duffy. Hartlepool could also be in a more advantageous position to sign Duffy due to their closer proximity to his home town of Glasgow. It is believed Duffy is keen not to move too far away from the Scottish city where most of his family and friends are based. “Darryl met with Hull boss Phil Brown this week and it looks likely he’ll be told he’s not wanted at the club,” said a source close to Hull. “But Hull will want at least £100,000 to £150,000 to try to claw back some of the money they paid Falkirk for him. “He’s been a success at Swansea, but Danny Wilson is also a big fan and with promotion could have the money to come in with an offer. “Darryl’s quite a home-town boy and probably wouldn’t want to move too far away from Glasgow.” Duffy was signed by then-Tigers boss Peter Taylor in January 2006 after a successful spell for Falkirk in the Scottish Premier League. He was a regular for Hull at the start of this season, but paid the price for the Tigers’ poor start which led to them fighting relegation until recently. Martinez is set to start building his own side this summer and sees Duffy as an important element in mounting a serious promotion push next time.

Liberty bell tolls for Williams 09-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail TOM WILLIAMS has revealed he wanted to leave Swansea City in March after being told a “massive club” wanted to sign him. Williams and back-up goalkeeper Andy Oakes were the only two not to be offered new terms yesterday as Swansea boss Roberto Martinez met the eight out-of-contract players in turn at the Liberty Stadium. Martinez stressed negotiations would continue with the other six – club captain Garry Monk, Izzy Iriekpen, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kris O’Leary, Kevin Austin and Steve Watt – but those players are entitled to talk to other clubs. It is a situation Martinez is extremely unhappy with, launching an outspoken attack on the club’s policy of leaving contract talks until after Saturday’s season swansong, the 6-3 home defeat to Blackpool. Williams endorsed those sentiments last night after being told in February that contract discussions would not take place until the season was over. And he revealed his mind was made up to leave Swansea when he discovered at the end of March that the same club had made two approaches for him. “We are talking about a massive club and they came in for me during the transfer window in January,” said Williams, 26, who made just over 50 appearances since joining from Gillingham 17 months ago. “I didn’t know that at the time but then they came in for me again in March and I found out about their earlier interest. “I didn’t know if Swansea were going to offer me a new contract, so I obviously had to think of myself and my family and told the club I wanted to leave. “It would have been an exciting move going to such a big club, but there were only six weeks of the season left and Swansea didn’t want to let me go. “I think Swansea wanted some money for me but I thought it was strange as I wasn’t in the team at the time.” Williams took some time to win over the Liberty faithful after being signed by former manager Kenny Jackett for a nominal fee in January 2006. But he was impressing in the left-back role, even being capped by Cyprus, before requiring hernia surgery in November. His absence prompted Jackett to sign Birmingham City youngster Marcos Painter, first on loan and then in a permanent £75,000 deal in January. Williams’ season got worse when he required another hernia operation and he found it difficult to regain his place under Martinez, even when Painter was injured in the closing weeks of the season and the veteran Austin was preferred. “I think people felt it was strange when I didn’t play in the last couple of games,” he said. “But I thought I did well when I came on and gave my all, even though I knew I’d probably be leaving the club. “I was contracted to the club and didn’t want anyone to question my commitment. “But I don’t think Swansea were ever going to offer me new terms because they knew I had other irons in the fire. “I was in and out of Roberto’s office in about two minutes.” While Williams says “four or five” clubs have shown interest in him, Oakes is also on the lookout for new employers after failing to budge Willy Gueret from the No 1 spot. Northwich-born Oakes, 30, made just four league starts after joining from Walsall on a free last summer. His last appearance came in the 1-0 defeat at Yeovil on February 24 – the final game of Kevin Nugent’s brief caretaker-reign. Martinez had a watching brief at Huish Park and when he reinstated Gueret for the trip to Rotherham three days later Oakes’ fate appeared sealed. “It’s not exactly the nicest part of the job, but it has to be done,” reflected Martinez, who has offered contracts to youngsters Kyle Graves and Kerry Morgan. “I’d like to thank both players for their efforts. I know Tom already has other options, while the timing of my appointment was not ideal from Andy’s point of view. “While I’ve only seen him in one league game, I know he’s more than a capable goalkeeper. But it’s an area we need to freshen up.”

OFF YOU GO 08-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City have released Tommy Williams and Andy Oakes as Roberto Martinez begins reshaping his squad for next season.But the future of the club's six other out-of-contract players remains up in the air after Martinez met with every member of his squad yesterday. Williams, who can play at left-back or in midfield, departs 18 months and 54 appearances after a £50,000 move from Gillingham. Oakes, signed on a free from Walsall last summer, moves on having made just five Swansea appearances as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper Willy Gueret. His release was widely expected, but Williams's exit may surprise a few. After struggling to make an impact in the second half of last season, the 26-year-old won over many Swans fans this year despite the fact that two separate hernia operations hampered his progress. Williams claimed recently that he had "managers phoning every week" asking him to sign for them, and the former Birmingham player is already being linked with a move to Nottingham Forest. "Tommy Williams and Andy Oakes will not have their contracts renewed," Martinez said. "It's a shame we have to be in this situation where we have a retained list and Tommy's situation is unfortunate. "He's had two injuries this season which have held him back a little bit and I know he already has other options. "Andy has been a fantastic professional, I've been really, really impressed with his attitude and he was unlucky with the timing of my arrival at the club. "I watched him play at Yeovil, then I played Willy Gueret at Rotherham and, based purely on those two games, I went with Willy. "He deserved to play every game from there on. Now I am releasing Andy because goalkeeper is a department we need to freshen up." Martinez, who again complained that Swansea had allow so many players' contracts to expire at once, would not specify whether Garry Monk, Kris O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen, Bayo Akinfenwa, Kevin Austin and Steve Watt have been offered fresh terms. "There are different situations with every player," he added. "Negotiations are ongoing and it's not going to be a straightforward thing. It will take a few weeks to sort things out. "As soon as we have something concrete to announce, we will." The Swansea boss also refused to be drawn on whether any of those squad members under contract beyond next month could be moved on during the close season. "What I can tell you is that we report back on June 29 and by then the squad will be finalised," he said. "From now until then is going to be a very busy period where we'll be doing lots of work." Loanees Darryl Duffy and Richard Duffy have returned to parent clubs Hull and Portsmouth respectively. A move to bring defender Richard back looks unlikely given his lack of first-team opportunities under Martinez, but striker Darryl could be a permanent target this summer after his goalscoring exploits during Swansea's play-off push. The club have offered professional terms to two youth-teamers, 18-year-old defender Kyle Graves and 16-year-old striker Kerry Morgan.

FAILURE NOT QUITE SO PAINFUL THIS TIME 08-05-2007

Evening Post Thumped as they were by Blackpool last weekend, at least Swansea City did not end this season feeling as if their guts had been ripped out.Yes, there was a feeling of frustration, particularly after Roberto Martinez (inset) had restored belief in the closing stages of a campaign where most had lost faith. But Saturday's 6-3 humbling was like losing out in a pillow fight compared to the defeat by Barnsley a year ago that left Swansea's players - and 34,000 fans - feeling as though they had each done a turn as Floyd Mayweather's punch bag. Pummelled on penalties, Lee Trundle and company were left strewn across the Millennium Stadium turf with tears in their eyes. Through the first half of that season, and throughout a play-off final where they were the better side, Championship football had been within their grasp. It was seeing their grip loosened in the final seconds of the campaign which made it hurt so much. "What we have to do now is make sure we do not feel the bitter disappointment we feel now this time next year," Kenny Jackett said last May. Swansea don't, but this wasn't the way they planned to avoid it. Jackett envisaged missing out on the play-offs in 2006-07, but by finishing above them rather than below. The brutal truth is that Swansea never looked like achieving that goal. They endured a frustrating summer in the transfer market - remember Dean Leacock, the player deemed not fit enough to join in a club-record deal? He has since played 39 times for a Derby side who narrowly missed out on automatic promotion to the Premiership and still have a chance in the play-offs. It makes you wonder. Too many of the players who did pass medicals at the Liberty Stadium would later fail to tick all the boxes on the pitch. As ever, Jackett's commitment to the cause was admirable. But the success that will and desire brought in his first two seasons at the helm proved much harder to come by as Swansea stumbled through this campaign. Never was there even a hint of the kind of run - champions Scunthorpe suffered one league defeat in 27 from late autumn to spring, for instance - required to claim a place in the top two. Like a scratched record, Swansea hit all the right notes one minute, only to slide out of the groove the next. Martinez did his best to turn the tables, but by the time he arrived it was too late. It has crossed many minds over the last couple of months what might have been had Martinez returned to Wales earlier in the campaign. There was always a feeling he would be back, and speculation suggests the idea of jettisoning Jackett in favour of the Spaniard was discussed in the Liberty boardroom at different stages of the season. Defeat at Nottingham Forest in September first sent Jackett sprawling on to thin ice. In the stands, there were mutterings about the former Watford man almost throughout, and they grew loud once more after a beating by Brighton and a miraculous draw at Blackpool in early December. None of Swansea's 4,500 followers was complaining after an exhilarating FA Cup win at Sheffield United in January, an unlikely triumph which would prove the high point of the season. Sadly, Jackett could not inspire such eye-catching performances in League One, and it was from that Bramall Lane high that a terminal decline began. Swansea would win only one of their next six matches, a run which left them 11 points adrift of the top two in mid-February. Jackett raised the white flag in the battle for automatic promotion. Four days later, after jeers from fans, a not-so-ringing endorsement from the chairman and a first mention of Martinez in the press, he threw in the towel altogether. "We know we've let him down massively," said Garry Monk, one player who couldn't be blamed, having barely kicked a ball all season because of injury. Jackett felt he had lost the support of his squad, and certainly some - many of whom he signed - simply had not lived up to their billing. And so Martinez was charged with picking up the pieces in the season's last dozen games. Five points adrift of the play-off spots when he took his first training session on February 26, and with Swansea in their worst form in four years, his task looked close to impossible. Yet the managerial novice picked up where he left off as a Swansea player, doing all his work with a touch of class. Martinez, having no problem switching from recently-departed team-mate to boss, immediately lifted spirits. Even after Blackpool, he could boast a record of two points banked from each of the 12 games he took charge of and, but for the form of others, that might easily have been enough to send Swansea's season into overtime. As a result, even the six goals plundered by the men from the Lancashire seaside last weekend has not dented optimism on the South West Wales coast about what next season might bring. Martinez has barely put a foot wrong since his return, pulling a rabbit out of the hat in the shape of Darryl Duffy, his solitary signing to date. More smart work in the transfer market is required this summer, with fresh faces needed right through the spine of the Swansea side. And then the real test comes for Martinez, who must replicate his points return as a manager to date throughout 2007-8. It's another big test, but one which must be passed. If not, Swansea leave themselves open to another body blow in 12 months' time.

Swans release Williams and Oakes 07-05-2007

BBC Tom Williams and Andy Oakes are the first casualties of Roberto Martinez's rebuilding work at Swansea City. The pair, among eight players out of contract at the end of the season, have not been offered new deals. Goalkeeper Oakes, who joined on a free transfer last summer has played just one League One game since Martinez took charge in February. Defender or midfielder Williams has struggled with injury this season, but is attracting interest for other clubs. The Cyprus international joined for an undisclosed fee from Gillingham last January, and played in 10 of the 12 games under Martinez. "It's not exactly the nicest part of the job, but it has to be done,'' Martinez told the club's website. "It's part of football. "I'd like to thank both players for their efforts. I know Tom already has other options, while the timing of my appointment was not ideal from Andy's point of view. "While I've only seen him in one League game, I know he's more than a capable goalkeeper, but it's an area we need to freshen up.'' Swansea said that negotiations with the six remaining out of contract players - Kevin Austin, Kristian O'Leary, Izzy Iriekpen, Adebayo Akinfenwa, Steve Watt and Garry Monk - will continue over the next few weeks.

Martinez angry over contract policy 07-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail ROBERTO MARTINEZ believes Swansea City have been “exposed” by letting the contracts of eight players run out. Swansea boss Martinez fears he could lose key players as he seeks to rebuild following the disappointment of missing out on the League One play-offs. And defender Izzy Iriekpen – who scored twice in the fateful 6-3 defeat to Blackpool – says Swansea have been “disrespectful” by not offering contracts to players they may wish to keep. Three players who started the Blackpool defeat – Iriekpen, Kris O’Leary and Kevin Austin – are out of contract, as is second-half substitute Tom Williams. Injury victims Garry Monk and Bayo Akinfenwa must also wait to discover their fate, so too second-choice goalkeeper Andy Oakes and back-up defender Steven Watt. The future of the Duffys, loan signings Darryl and Richard, must also be determined by Martinez with all talks planned for today. But for now, taking what appeared a hefty swipe at the previous regime of Kenny Jackett, he is unhappy at the situation he has inherited. “A football club of our size should never be in a position where we’ve got eight players out of contract,” he said. “I believe we are the Man United or Chelsea of League One, and if you feel that you cannot be in this situation. I have never seen Man United or Chelsea in this situation and we need to make sure we get that right. “You shouldn’t be playing such a massive game when you’ve got players out of contract on the pitch. I don’t agree with that.” Martinez has hinted Akinfenwa, who hasn’t played since breaking his leg in February, will be offered new terms. Iriekpen, Monk, Williams and O’Leary could also fall into that category, but they are all open to offers from elsewhere. “This is something that shouldn’t happen, we shouldn’t be exposed,” said Martinez. “It’s a possibility that players may decide to go somewhere else, that’s what happens. “It works both ways when you leave the player in an uncertain position. “The football club has to make a decision, but the player also has to make a decision. “That’s something he might believe in, but I’m not going to allow that to happen anymore. “I’m not saying it’s the fault of anyone, because football clubs are in stages and they make decisions. But that’s the situation we’re in.” Martinez confirmed he would speak to the eight out-of-contract players today as well as the two loan signings. The Spaniard hopes for a quick conclusion, but some players may wish to see if other clubs are interested in their services. “Every player deserves to have a proper conversation with me because I have got respect for every single player in that squad,” said Martinez. “Over the last 10 weeks you see how talented they are and how well they represent Swansea City. “Every player has had time to show me his worth and the decision is based on that, not just on this last game.” Of course, Martinez the player was himself released by Swansea last season and signed for League Two club Chester. So he understands the human emotions amid the process. “It’s not nice for a player wondering whether his contract is going to renewed, but it is the nature of the game and those decisions have to be made. “Some players will agree, some players will disagree with the resolution, but everyone will be dealt with fairly. “As a friend, I will try to help everyone, but it doesn’t put any concern in my mind. It’s part of the job.” But Iriekpen – 25 next week – could not hide his displeasure at the way matters have been handled. “I do want to stay at Swansea, but, to be fair, they’ve left things really late,” said the defender, who has made over 120 league appearances for Swansea. “As a player, that’s disrespectful if you’ve done well. You do look to be offered something, but nothing’s been on the table. “Contracts should be sorted out six months before the end of the contract if they want to keep you. “If other clubs are coming in then the club has got to act. If there’s a better offer somewhere else, people will think about it, even if they’ve got a love for Swansea.”

Duffy wants quick decision on future 07-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail LOAN signing Darryl Duffy has urged Swansea City to sort out his future as quickly as possible. Duffy will return to his parent club Hull today after holding talks with Swans boss Roberto Martinez – but the Scottish striker hopes he will be back in South Wales for pre-season training in July. “We’ve played some smashing football and I’ve enjoyed my time here,” said Duffy, who managed five goals in as many Swansea starts in the last month of the season. “I would like to stay but it’s completely out of my hands. “It’s down to the clubs now, so if Swansea want to keep me it’s up to them to get in contact with Hull and sort something out. “But Hull paid a bit of money for me (£250,000) and they’ll probably be looking to get some of that back.” Duffy revealed talks over a permanent switch had been put on the back-burner with Swansea chasing a League One play-off place. “Both of us wanted to concentrate on the games. so we’ve not spoken about it,” said the 23-year-old. “But the sooner it’s sorted out the better, everybody concerned can relax and enjoy their summer. “I’m going to come in Monday, speak to the manager and say my goodbyes to the boys. I’ll wish them a good summer and hopefully see them in July.” On a see-saw afternoon which saw Swansea lose 1-0 and 3-2 leads before being blown away, Duffy praised the quality of Blackpool’s finishing. “When we went ahead at 3-2 we had to keep it tight at the back for five or 10 minutes,” he said.“But they replied quickly.”

Forbes: Liberty reception ‘unbelievable’ 07-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY old boy Adrian Forbes admitted there was no way he could celebrate any of Blackpool’s six goals after he was given an “unbelievable” Liberty Stadium reception, writes Phil Blanche. Forbes was cheered off the Blackpool bus and onto the pitch as Swansea fans recalled vital goals and wholehearted wing play during his two seasons at the Liberty. The 28-year-old set up Blackpool’s second in the Tangerines’ 6-3 romp, but he refused to celebrate with team-mates as Swansea’s play-off dream died in dramatic fashion. “I had mixed emotions coming back here because the place holds a very dear place in my heart,” said Forbes, who was shown the door by former manager Kenny Jackett at the end of last season. “To see everyone here has made the day even more emotional. “When I came out for the warm-up the ground wasn’t that full, but the reception I got was just unbelievable. It was the same when I came back out to a packed house for the game. “I made sure I didn’t celebrate any of the goals, I’ve got far too much respect for the fans and everyone here to do that. “Some people jump around when they go back to their old grounds, but I wouldn’t do that. It would be wrong after the reception I was given.” While Swansea’s players head for their summer holidays, Forbes can focus on a semi-final play-off date with Oldham and the prospect of walking out at the new Wembley on May 27. As Forbes says, it’s a massive turnaround for the famous old Lancashire club, who have flirted with relegation rather than promotion in recent seasons. “Who would have dream it?” he said. “I was certainly expecting a relegation battle before the play-offs. When I left here I was hoping to find a club that could finish above Swansea. “The last thing you want to do is leave a big club like Swansea and work you way down the leagues. “I took a punt at Blackpool, but it’s worked out superbly for me. But it’s not a case of having the last laugh on Swansea because it’s a different regime to the one that got rid of me.”

Craney seeks goal-den form at last 04-05-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY midfielder Ian Craney admits he’s “desperate” to get his first goal for the club – but won’t mind if it doesn’t come against Blackpool as long as his side grab a play-off place. Craney, 24, signed permanently for the Swans in January from Accrington Stanley after a Liberty Stadium loan spell and had an enviable strike rate for the League Two club, firing 30 goals in 93 starts. But, despite 18 outings for the Swans, he is yet to find the net in League One, putting it down to a different role within the side prescribed by manager Roberto Martinez. “I’m desperate to get the goal, but it’s not the main thing in my mind,” said Craney. “I want to play well, but the team getting a win is most important. Although getting a goal against Blackpool would be a dream for me. “I’ve got a different role to the one I had at Accrington. It’s more of a team role. I used to just get in the box, I had no defensive role. But since the gaffer’s come in, he wants me to do the all-round game, and it’s been great.” As Swansea press for a play-off place, Craney admits even if they don’t make it this time, the players want to take their great form recently forward to the next campaign. “It’s not in our hands, but, if we win the game, we’ve got a chance. It’s interesting. We’ve just got to hope things go our way,” added Craney. “But Blackpool are a very good team, well-organised and it’s going to be difficult. “You look at the Oldham game and people would say Chesterfield aren’t expected to get anything, but this is football and funny things do happen. “All the lads will be gutted if we don’t make it, but if we don’t, we’ve got to take this form now into next season.”

Spy in the stand keeps Swans in touch 04-05-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY boss Roberto Martinez will have every kick of Oldham’s clash relayed live to him thanks to his very own spy at Boundary Park tomorrow. Swans coach Kevin Nugent will be at the Latics’ encounter with relegated Chesterfield and in constant mobile phone contact with Martinez’ No 2 Graeme Jones on the bench back at the Liberty Stadium. Martinez will then use the information to try to plot his side’s path past Blackpool and into the League One play-off positions. To slip into sixth place Swansea need to better Oldham’s performance or, in the event of both sides winning, need to score a hatful of goals to overtake the Latics on goal difference. Martinez admits he is taking no chances and will not have just the score relayed from the Oldham game, but also any injuries, who is on top and even who looks most likely to score. “We have to be aware of the Oldham score. As it happens, we’re sending Kevin Nugent there to follow the game,” he said. “You have to follow that game as it happens, and not just the score. I think you need to know what’s happening in the game. Who’s on top, who’s controlling the game, who’s got a chance to get back in the game or what’s the tempo. “That’s why Kevin is going to be on the phone to Graeme and giving a running report. “We have to do that. Obviously it would be stupid in the last 20 minutes of the campaign to be saving a result. “If we need to go for it we will, that’s why we need to know the Oldham score – if there are any injuries, if someone is sent off or even if someone looks like scoring. I think it’s very important every situation is controlled.” Though Martinez is hoping to keep his players in the dark over developments at Boundary Park, with a sell-out crowd expected at the Liberty, he realises this will be easier said than done. “You’re not going to stop the fans cheering or whatever and I’m not going to stop the scores going up on the scoreboard,” he added. “You cannot stop every supporter getting information from their telephone or radio. “My focus is on the players, they need to play it and win the game. Everything else is out of our hands. “But I’m sure Oldham are going to find it hard to get a result. “Chesterfield have a manager who is planning for the next campaign and everybody is playing for their futures. “And when you have not got the collective pressure it can work for you really, really well. “Everyone is expecting Oldham to win, but sometimes that can work against you.” Since Martinez took over the Swans in February he has masterminded a dramatic surge up the League One table, earning seven wins and three draws from his 11 games in charge. But the modest Martinez is keen to put the credit for the run firmly on the shoulders of his players. And he is calling on Swansea supporters to also play their part as the season comes to a dramatic conclusion. “I think it’s credit to the boys for putting us in this situation,” said Martinez. “They can’t wait for the game now and there’s been a special feeling amongst them this week. It’s going to be an exciting afternoon. I’m looking forward to playing at home with our crowd behind us. “The backing of the fans is important, you can feel the buzz already around the city. “There’s a lot of people who will be playing in two grounds, thinking about other results. We are going to try and focus on what is going to be a hard game.” Fourth-placed Blackpool arrive at the Liberty on an incredible six-match winning streak and with boss Simon Grayson having pipped Martinez to the manager-of-the-month award for April. With a shot still at an automatic promotion place, Martinez acknowledges they are going to be a difficult proposition. “Blackpool are a team in form and we need to be on top of our game to get a result,” said Martinez. “Some people are taking it for granted we will get three points. But, if I was in Blackpool’s situation, I would be coming here looking to win. “Every one of our players is going to have to perform well.” Meanwhile, Martinez could be without captain Alan Tate (eye) and Tom Butler (foot) tomorrow. Tate took a boot in the face in the 2-1 win at Carlisle last weekend and has suffered an injury which has left his vision blurred.

Forbes has mixed emotions 03-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail ADRIAN FORBES admits he has “mixed emotions” about seeing former club Swansea City in the play-offs. On the one hand the ex-Liberty Stadium favourite would love his old team-mates – and in particular Swans goalkeeper and close friend Willy Gueret – to make amends for last season’s play-off final heartbreak. But what Forbes also knows is how much Lee Trundle and co would pose a real threat to the chances of his current club, Blackpool, emerging triumphant in the end-of-season lottery. The Seasiders have already booked their place in the top six and victory at Swansea could see them gatecrash the automatic promotion spots if Bristol City and Nottingham Forest both slip up. Forbes said, “I’ve got mixed emotions as I’ve got a lot of friends there, both on and off the pitch, and the fans were superb to me while I was there. “I’d love to see Swansea playing Championship football. They deserve that. But, at the same time, I don’t want them to get it at our expense. “I consider players like Willy Gueret, Kevin Austin and Alan Tate as friends for life. “But I wouldn’t want to meet them in the play-off final. That’s a scenario I wouldn’t want. “The ideal scenario would be Blackpool going up automatically and Swansea via the play-offs, but sadly that can’t happen.” The 28-year-old midfielder reckons the Swans will be a real force if they make the play-offs. Not only are Roberto Martinez’ men in fine form – they have won seven and drawn three of their 11 games under the Spaniard – they are also determined to wash away the bitter taste of last season’s penalty shoot-out defeat against Barnsley in the play-off final. Forbes added, “If they make the play-offs Swansea will have a great chance of going up because they’ve got players who are ready for the big occasion. “With the squad they’ve got I’m surprised they didn’t challenge for a top-two place this season. “I wasn’t involved in the play-off final last season, but I saw the effect losing it had on some of the players. “A few of them were in tears in the dressing room after the game. They won’t want to go through that again, that’s an added incentive for them if they’re involved again. “Most of the lads who played against Barnsley are still at the club and they’re going to be stronger characters after losing the final.” Forbes insists a Blackpool side that has won their last seven matches will be going all-out for victory at the Liberty Stadium – and not just because they have an outside chance of stealing the runners-up spot. No matter what Bristol City or Forest do, the Seasiders – along with champions Scunthorpe the big surprise in League One this term – want to finish the regular campaign on a winning note. He said, “We’ve had a superb season. When I joined Blackpool I didn’t know what to expect. “They struggled a bit last season, so I don’t think anyone would have thought we’d cement a play-off place with two games still to play. “We’ve got a very good squad and we want to finish on a high. We want to keep that momentum going if we are to be involved in the play-offs.” Forbes was released by ex-Swans boss Kenny Jacket after two seasons with the Welsh club. The former Norwich and Luton player left after writing his name in Swansea folklore by scoring the winner at Bury that sealed promotion from League Two as well as netting the final league goal at the Vetch. But Forbes was less then impressed with the way Jackett treated him in his final season, claiming the ex-QPR No.2 told him he was on his way via a mobile phone message. He blasted his old manager before Swansea’s trip to Bloomfield Road last December saying Jackett treated him “like something that had crawled off the bottom of his shoe.” Nearly five months on and his attitude towards the former Watford and Wales player, who dramatically quit his post last February after three straight losses, has softened. He added, “I didn’t want to leave Swansea – I think everyone is sick of hearing me say that! “I haven’t spoken to Kenny since I left. All that happened a year ago. “But they haven’t challenged for automatic promotion this time and maybe that’s down to a play-off hangover. Forbes, who scored 11 goals in 69 league outings for the Swans, is convinced new chief Martinez will be a huge success in the dugout. He explained, “I’ve got a lot of respect for the man who is now in charge there. “I worked alongside Roberto for two years and his ideas on how the game should be played are a breath of fresh air. “He’s a gentleman and the players will play for him because he will treat them respect. “Get the respect of your players and that’s 50 per cent of the battle won. “If Swansea don’t go up this season, then I expect them to do it next year.”

ROBERTO UP FOR GONG 03-05-2007

Evening Post Swansea City boss Roberto Martinez has been nominated for League One's manager of the month award - and Darryl Duffy could take the player gong.Martinez is in the running along with John Ward (Cheltenham), Colin Calderwood (Nottm Forest) and Simon Grayson, manager of Swansea's opponents this weekend, Blackpool. Martinez's men went through April unbeaten, winning games against Port Vale, Brighton and Carlisle and earning draws at Bournemouth and Bristol City. Striker Duffy, meantime, is up for the Powerade player of the month award after scoring five goals in four Swansea starts in April. The on-loan Hull man is up against Robbie Williams (Blackpool), Billy Sharp (Scunthorpe) and Danny Graham (Carlisle). The winning manager will be announced tomorrow lunchtime, while the player prize will be dished out on Sunday.

MARTINEZ HOPING FOR A BIT OF LUCK 03-05-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez admits beating Blackpool this weekend and still missing out on the League One play-offs would be hard to stomach.But the Swansea City manager has told his players not to mope around in the lead-up to the final day of the regular season and to focus instead on giving themselves a top-six chance. Victory over Blackpool would see in-form Swansea finish with 75 points, enough for a play-off place in English football's third tier in seven of the last 10 seasons. Yet they will see the curtain fall on their season if Oldham beat already-relegated Chesterfield at Boundary Park - unless Martinez's men can engineer a three-goal swing in goal difference. "To be in with a chance of getting a tally of 75 points and still not being in control of our own destiny is difficult to take," conceded the Swansea boss, who has banked an impressive 24 points from 11 matches at the helm of the Liberty Stadium club. "There are not many seasons where that many points will not get you into the play-offs at this level - we got there with 71 last year - but these things are not in our hands and we cannot worry about them. "We just have to worry about beating one of the form sides in the division in Blackpool and hope that we get a bit of luck. "Maybe the odds are against us, but in football anything is possible." While Swansea have almost the toughest possible task ahead of them, while Oldham have one of the simplest. Blackpool, who could still win automatic promotion, arrive in Wales on the back of six consecutive wins, while Chesterfield head for Lancashire having failed to score in their last six on the road. But Martinez said: "Yes Chesterfield have been relegated, but everyone will still be playing for a contract or for their own career. "And Oldham need to win a game they are expected to win which can sometimes be hard. "All we can do is our job. "We need to beat Blackpool and then see if what happens at Oldham gives us a chance."

FOUR MORE WEEKS 03-05-2007

Evening Post Adrian Forbes believes Swansea City would be scrapping it out with Blackpool for automatic promotion this weekend if Roberto Martinez had replaced Kenny Jackett earlier in the season. The former Swansea winger, set to start for Blackpool in Saturday's crunch Liberty Stadium clash, fell out with Jackett last year over claims he went back on the promise of a new contract. But Forbes insists his backing for Martinez is based on results rather than any lingering feeling of bitterness towards his old boss. The 28-year-old flyer has watched from afar this season as Swansea struggled to make an impact in League One under Jackett only to bank 24 points from 11 games - unquestionably top-two form - since Martinez arrived in February. "I've said my piece about the way I was treated by Kenny Jackett when I left and I won't bore anyone going through all that again," Forbes said. "And I do believe Kenny did a tremendous job at Swansea. He brought the club a lot of success and there was a massive difference between the club he took over and the one he left. "I don't know the full ins and outs of what happened between him and the players at the end, but if you look it at results weren't particularly good for him and they picked up as soon as Roberto came in. "Roberto's brought Darryl Duffy in and the results he has got speak volumes. "Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but I believe if he'd come back three or four weeks earlier Swansea would be in the same position as us. "They'd have a chance of getting into the top two and they'd already be safely in the play-offs." Martinez was Forbes's captain throughout his two years in South West Wales, and the ex-Norwich man always felt the Spaniard would graduate to the manager's office. "It was a bit of a shock that he was back at Swansea so soon after leaving," he added. "But I knew he would be a success because of the way he conducts himself and the respect people have got for him. "After the job he's done, Swansea probably deserve a play-off place." Forbes, though, will be doing his best to deny his former team-mates a top-six chance in three days' time. Used as a back-up striker due to injuries in recent weeks, he is favourite to start on the right of Blackpool's midfield at the Liberty Stadium with Chris Brandon, the player who had been keeping him out, beginning a three-match ban. "My ideal scenario would be for us to go up automatically and Swansea to get into the play-offs. But sadly I don't think there's much chance of that happening,'' said Forbes. "We have a chance of making the top two if Bristol City and Nottingham Forest slip up and we can win at Swansea. But I know from experience that's no easy task and personally I think it's fairly unlikely we'll go up automatically. "Then there's the chance we could play Swansea in the play-offs, which is not something I would relish. "My worst nightmare is going through one-on-one with Willy (Gueret) and having the chance to end Swansea's season. "But then if it does happen the Swansea fans shouldn't worry. I've only scored once this season, and all my shots seem to have gone wide!" Forbes, who hopes for a warm reception back on his old patch, admits he has struggled for his best form this term. The same cannot be said of his team. "It's been incredible really," he said. "We only won one of our first 12 matches, but suddenly all the new faces the manager brought in clicked and we felt we could beat anyone. No-one could have dreamed we'd be in fourth place going into the last day, but we've been on a great run and, if we do end up in the play-offs, we'll have plenty of momentum."

Monk incentive spurs on Swans 02-05-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail ROBERTO MARTINEZ has challenged his Swansea City players to extend their season for the sake of club captain Garry Monk. Central defender Monk has missed the entire campaign after damaging cruciate ligaments at Scunthorpe in August. But Monk made the bench as an unused substitute in Saturday’s crucial 2-1 win at Carlisle, and now hopes to play a part in the League One play-offs. For that to happen, though, Swansea must trump Oldham’s result against relegated Chesterfield when they welcome automatic promotion hopefuls Blackpool on Saturday. “Garry has worked in a fantastic way behind the scenes,” said Martinez. “He’s put in many lonely sessions and I’ve got a lot of respect for the work he’s done. “To overcome an injury like that doesn’t happen overnight. But he’s come back stronger and he’s come back before schedule. “He’s been a credit to himself and to the football club. It’s just a shame that there is only one game left in the regular campaign. “But the motivation is there for us to extend the season and make sure that Garry enjoys it.” Ahead of Saturday’s Liberty Stadium showdown, Martinez and Blackpool counterpart Simon Grayson go head-to-head for the Coca-Cola League One manager of the month award for April. Martinez completed the month unbeaten with three wins and two draws to push the Swans to within goal difference of the play-offs. Cheltenham’s John Ward and Nottingham Forest’s Colin Calderwood are also in the running for an award which will be announced on Sky News at 12.30pm today. With Blackpool expected to bring between 1,500 and 2,000 fans, Swansea are hoping for a Liberty sell-out. Over 17,000 tickets have already been sold.

TATE: WE MUST HIT POOL FOR SIX 01-05-2007

Evening Post Alan Tate believes Swansea City must go in search of a cricket score against Blackpool this weekend if they are to sneak into the play-offs. Roberto Martinez's men head into the final day knowing they must better Oldham's result or turn round the Latics' two-goal advantage in goal difference to reach the top six. And Tate reckons the latter scenario is almost certainly their only hope as Oldham host already-relegated Chesterfield on Saturday. "You've got to think that Oldham are going to win at least 1-0," said Swansea's stand-in skipper. "And that means we're going to have to score four. "It would have helped if Chesterfield were still in with a chance of staying up. "But they suffered a heavy blow last Saturday, beating Bradford 3-0 and still going down. "People will say they are playing for contracts, but really the players who are going to get offered them probably know it already. They will be the ones who have been in the team all season, and it's not going to be decided on the strength of what they do this weekend. "They'll want to beat Oldham, but subconsciously they'll know they've nothing to play for and if I'm honest I don't see them getting anything. "That means we have to concentrate on scoring four or five. "It sounds unlikely, I know, but we've got to give it a go." While Martinez will cling to the hope that Chesterfield can do his team a favour, Tate reckons his manager will be tempted to alter Swansea's approach in search of goals. Blackpool are the division's most in-form side, but Tate insisted: "We've got to go for broke. "Whether the manager's team selection and shape will reflect that I don't know, but I wouldn't be surprised if he puts three up front or something like that. "We've got to attack Blackpool because we're not going to score four sitting back and hoping Chesterfield can do us favour. "If Oldham win and we get beaten going for it, at least we've had a go." Tate hopes to be fit to face the Tangerines despite the fact that he has not been able to open his eye since colliding with Carlisle striker Joe Garner's boot last Saturday. He admits news of Oldham's win at Brighton soured the mood in Brunton Park's away dressing room, but harks back to mid-winter when considering where things have gone wrong for Swansea this season. "I haven't been able to do a lot with my eye like it is," he said, "and I was thinking on Sunday about the year we've had. "The game that sticks in the memory is Huddersfield away, when we were 2-0 up at half-time and ended up losing 3-2. "With hindsight, even a point would have been a good result there." Pawel Abbott, now a Swansea player, was key to Huddersfield's revival that day, coming off the bench to create one goal and score two more. "If we don't make the play-offs," smiled Tate, "we'll blame it all on Pav!"

SHERIDAN: WE'LL END SWANSEA'S SEASON 01-05-2007

Evening Post Oldham Athletic have declared themselves "very confident" that they will beat Swansea City to League One's final play-off place this weekend.The Latics host already-relegated Chesterfield knowing victory will leave Swansea in need of an avalanche of goals against top-two hopefuls Blackpool. And after watching his side win for only the third time in 14 matches at Brighton last Saturday, John Sheridan is tipping them to end Swansea's season. "We should be going out to play against Chesterfield with a real buzz around the team," said the Oldham boss. "They beat us down at their place and were one of the best sides we've played this season, but I'm very confident we can get the right result. "It was a big one against Brighton and it'll be even bigger next Saturday, so I'm sure the lads will be champing at the bit. "What more could they want than a chance to get into the play-offs and win promotion at Wembley? I wish I could be out there myself." Blackpool, meantime, are heading for Wales intent on chalking up a seventh straight victory. If the Tangerines manage that and Bristol City (Rotherham home) and Nottingham Forest (Crewe home) fail to win their games, they will be promoted automatically alongside Scunthorpe. "We will go to Swansea and give it a right good go," said boss Simon Grayson. "It should be a cracking game because Swansea obviously need a result to get into the play-offs and we need the points, so we're thoroughly looking forward to it. "Anything can happen. Strange results always happen in all the divisions on the last day. All we have to do is try to beat Swansea and if Bristol City and Forest lose, we've suddenly come from nowhere to win promotion. "It's unlikely but why not? You never know."

RED DEVIL MULLAN COULD BE WINGING WAY TO THE LIBERTY 01-05-2007

Evening Post Manchester United youngster Jamie Mullan could be on his way to Swansea City this summer after a trial spell.The teenage right-winger has been told he can leave Old Trafford in the close season and spent last week training with Roberto Martinez's squad. Known for his pace and crossing ability, Mullan joined United from Notts County three years ago and has been a regular in the Premiership giants' second string this term. "He has a fantastic record in the United reserves," Martinez said. "He has pace and talent and he is highly-regarded, but he is being released so we've spent some time together. "He's gone back up north for now, but it's something that is going to continue and it could well be that he comes back soon." Mullan was joined at the Liberty by Fulham's combative midfielder Matty Collins. The Merthyr-born 21-year-old is training with Swansea again this week. Martinez, meanwhile, hopes Alan Tate (eye) and Tom Butler (foot) will be fit for Saturday's play-off crunch against Blackpool. Club skipper Garry Monk (knee) is now considered fully fit after ending a nine-month exile by making the bench at Carlisle last weekend, while Marcos Painter also hopes to be involved. The former Birmingham left-back has yet to take part in full training since limping out of the win over Brighton 10 days ago. "Marcos's leg took such a massive impact that his knee is suffering a bit," Martinez said. "He is still recovering, so we'll have to see how he responds this week." THE Liberty's East Stand has sold out for the Blackpool game. Plenty of tickets are still available in other areas of the stadium, but fans are urged to buy early to avoid disappointment. The ticket office is open between 10am and 6pm each day, while internet bookings can be made at www.swanseacity.net . Blackpool had yesterday sold around 600 of their 2,000-ticket allocation, but they are forecasting a rush on sales as they are still in with a shout of automatic promotion. Details of park and ride arrangements will be revealed later this week. GARETH VINCENT

Swans fans told to keep off the pitch 01-05-2007

Western Mail SWANSEA CITY chairman Huw Jenkins is calling on supporters to stay off the Liberty Stadium pitch on Saturday after the crunch clash with Blackpool. Jenkins is keen to avoid the chaotic scenes at Brunton Park last weekend which followed the Swans’ vital victory over Carlisle. Home fans surged on to the pitch after the final whistle and the Swansea players found their route to the dressing rooms blocked. Star striker Lee Trundle, who had grabbed his team’s first in the last-gasp 2-1 victory, needed a police escort and Swans boss Roberto Martinez expressed his own concerns about what had happened. Swansea now welcome fourth-placed Blackpool on the final day of the League One season with a sell-out Liberty Stadium expected. The Swans need to overcome the Tangerines and hope Oldham fail to beat already-relegated Chesterfield to secure a play-off place. And Jenkins is calling on supporters to stay off the pitch for the safety of everyone. “What happened at Carlisle was of concern and I was fearful for a few moments, but things were sorted out quite quickly,” said Jenkins. “The problem clubs face is that it can be very difficult to keep supporters off the field of play if a large number are determined to do so. “I know it seems to be traditional in the last home game of any season for fans to go on to the pitch – but I would ask our fans on Saturday not to. “In our present facility, for everyone’s safety, I think supporters should stay in their seats after the final whistle. “It is the safety of everyone at the game which is our prime concern.” Jenkins said Swansea’s players might take a lap of honor at the end of the Blackpool game to show their appreciation to supporters. Jenkins added, “If it’s appropriate, and people want it, the players will come out and the fans can show their appreciation from the safety of their seats. “It’s going to be an exciting afternoon for us all.” Swansea are expecting a near 20,000 sell-out with fans expected to snap all available tickets by Thursday. Meanwhile, defender Alan Tate says an eye injury sustained against Carlisle will not prevent him from lining up against Blackpool. “At the moment I can’t see a lot out of my eye, but I’m confident it will be OK for Saturday,” said Tate, who required stitches in the wound. “One of the Carlisle players went for an overhead kick. I could see it coming, but I had to put my head in there because he was inside the box with a good chance of scoring. “But it was worth it to come away with the three points and keep things going for the final game against Blackpool.” Oldham remain in the final play-off place in League One on goal difference after beating Brighton 2-1 away to end a four-game run without a win. “If I’m honest, we thought Brighton would get something against Oldham to put it in our own hands. “But it didn’t turn out that way and now we’ve got to look over our shoulder at the Oldham result. “You would expect Oldham to beat Chesterfield, so it could come down to how many goals we can score against a Blackpool side that have plenty to play for themselves with automatic promotion up for grabs. “It was never going to be easy anyway because Blackpool are a good side, but we’ve got nothing to lose. “We’ve had some big wins at the Liberty over the past two seasons, beating the likes of Bristol City 7-1 and Carlisle 5-0, so perhaps we’ll have to produce something special again. “Saying that, who’s to say that Oldham won’t slip up. I’m sure the supporters will be letting us know how they are getting on during the game.”

TAKE ACTION! 30-04-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez has called for action from the football authorities after a pitch invasion at Carlisle left him fearing for the safety of his players.The Swansea City boss watched as home fans flooded the field after his side's last-gasp 2-1 win kept their play-off dream alive. Most of those on the pitch were merely following end-of-season tradition, but a handful needed to be beaten away by baton-wielding police as they attempted to get at Swansea's players and in particular Lee Trundle. Martinez praised the way the things were eventually handled but claimed more should be done to prevent such situations in future. "You have to be worried when these things happen," he said. "There was a decision late in the game which stirred up emotions among the fans and I was concerned for my players' safety. "Lee Trundle, Izzy Iriekpen and Kris O'Leary got caught by the wave of the people, they were stuck out there on the pitch. "It's difficult to control the fans coming on like they did and the people at Carlisle did a fantastic job dealing with it. "But I think the Football Association and the other big organisations need to keep a close eye on this. "Maybe they can get tighter security before the final whistle because it's about the health and safety of players. Thankfully on this occasion none of them got injured." Brunton Park was not the only pitch invaded this week - there were far uglier scenes at Elland Road as Leeds United conceded late on against Ipswich. There was also an incident earlier this season when a Tottenham fan attacked Chelsea's Frank Lampard in the middle of a game. But Trundle, unpopular in Cumbria apparently because of an alleged diving incident nearly four

DUFFY: IT WASN'T HANDBALL, SIMPLE AS THAT 30-04-2007

Evening Post Darryl Duffy insisted he was not guilty of handball in the lead-up to Swansea City's dramatic late winner at Carlisle.Furious Carlisle players screamed for the 93rd-minute goal to be chalked off, claiming Duffy had handled after Izzy Iriekpen's shot was parried by home keeper Keiren Westwood into the striker's path. Home boss Neil McDonald did not have a great view of the incident, but he joined in the condemnation of Nottinghamshire referee Phil Joslin. ''I saw him,'' he said. ''It was either chest on to hand or he took the ball from hand to his chest and then knocked it in. Whatever, he handled it.'' But Duffy, who now has five goals in four starts since arriving on loan from Hull, dismissed Carlisle complaints. ''I don't know how their manager could see it from where he was standing,'' he said. ''I bent down and my arm was down there, but the ball hit me in the side of the chest. ''I like to think I'm an honest player and I can honestly say the ball didn't hit me on the arm. ''Carlisle are protesting because it's frustrating losing a goal in the last minute like that. It's a killer blow at that stage and I'm sure if it had been the other way round we'd have been just as frustrated. ''But the linesman was right in line and if it had hit my hand he would have seen it and given it. He didn't flag because it wasn't handball and I'm just delighted to score such an important goal.'' The controversy probably contributed to ugly scenes at the final whistle, when a traditional end-of-season pitch invasion by home fans threatened to turn ugly. A handful of Swansea players were threatened as they tried to leave the field, but Duffy was not one of them. ''Luckily I was stood right by the tunnel when the whistle went,'' smiled the Scot, proving again his knack of being in the right place at the right time. ''I heard the staff screaming at me to get off the pitch and turned round to see floods of fans coming on to the pitch. It seems Lee (Trundle) is not very popular up here, but then he isn't popular at a lot of grounds because he's a good player.'' Swansea's joy at their triumph was tempered by news of Oldham's win at Brighton. ''We're up against it, but we'll just go out next Saturday and give it our all,'' Duffy added. ''We've put a good run together to give ourselves a chance and all we can do is our best against Blackpool.''

I did not handle the ball, insists Duffy 30-04-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY hero Darryl Duffy insisted he had not handled after his controversial last-gasp winner kept the club’s play-off dream alive. Carlisle boss Neil McDonald and his angry players had accused Duffy of using a hand to control the rebound from Izzy Iriekpen’s shot before firing into an empty net. But Duffy said, “I don’t know why they were complaining or how their manager can see it from where he’s standing. “I like to think I’m an honest type of player, and it wasn’t handball. “It hit my chest and the referee was in line with it. If it had hit my hand, he would have seen it and given it. “But I’m sure if it was the other way round we’d be just as frustrated at losing a goal in the last minute. It was a killer blow for them, but that’s football.” Duffy, on loan from Hull City, has now scored five times in four starts since breaking into Roberto Martinez’ starting line-up three weeks ago. But the Scot had endured a frustrating afternoon at Brunton Park, passing up a couple of chances, before ending Carlisle’s own play-off hopes. “It was a fantastic time to score and it was even sweeter getting the three points,” said Duffy. “Both teams needed to win the game and that was apparent, it was end-to-end stuff. “It must have been fantastic to watch and it was good to play in as well. We didn’t know Oldham were winning, but both teams felt they had to go for broke.” Looking ahead to the season’s finale with Blackpool and trying to overhaul Oldham in the process, Duffy admitted, “We’re in a tough position and we’re up against it. “But we’re at home on Saturday and we’ll give it our all. But we’ve got to focus on our own performance and not worry about what Oldham do. “We’ve put a good run together. It’s got us into the position and we’ll go out there and do our best.” Carlisle’s second successive home defeat ruled them out of the play-off equation, and there was clearly a sense of injustice over Duffy’s winner. McDonald said, “I saw him either chest it onto his hand or take the ball from hand to his chest and then knock it in. “I’ll have a look at it again on the tape, but, in my opinion, he handled it. It’s not sour grapes, but we certainly deserved a draw. “I thought we were outplayed in the first half, but we got the goal back and caused them a lot of problems. I felt we were the better team after Johann (Smith) took his goal fantastically well. “He got a one-on-one with the goalkeeper after that and, maybe, the square pass was the easiest thing to do. “When you play against the top sides you have to put those chances away. If you don’t, it comes back to haunt you.” Despite falling short of the play-offs, McDonald said the Cumbrians could take pride from their League One baptism after back-to-back promotions. “My players have played to their full potential and done better than most people thought they would,” he said. “People would probably have been happy with 20th after two promotions, but we've bridged the gap.”

I did not handle the ball, insists Duffy 30-04-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY hero Darryl Duffy insisted he had not handled after his controversial last-gasp winner kept the club’s play-off dream alive. Carlisle boss Neil McDonald and his angry players had accused Duffy of using a hand to control the rebound from Izzy Iriekpen’s shot before firing into an empty net. But Duffy said, “I don’t know why they were complaining or how their manager can see it from where he’s standing. “I like to think I’m an honest type of player, and it wasn’t handball. “It hit my chest and the referee was in line with it. If it had hit my hand, he would have seen it and given it. “But I’m sure if it was the other way round we’d be just as frustrated at losing a goal in the last minute. It was a killer blow for them, but that’s football.” Duffy, on loan from Hull City, has now scored five times in four starts since breaking into Roberto Martinez’ starting line-up three weeks ago. But the Scot had endured a frustrating afternoon at Brunton Park, passing up a couple of chances, before ending Carlisle’s own play-off hopes. “It was a fantastic time to score and it was even sweeter getting the three points,” said Duffy. “Both teams needed to win the game and that was apparent, it was end-to-end stuff. “It must have been fantastic to watch and it was good to play in as well. We didn’t know Oldham were winning, but both teams felt they had to go for broke.” Looking ahead to the season’s finale with Blackpool and trying to overhaul Oldham in the process, Duffy admitted, “We’re in a tough position and we’re up against it. “But we’re at home on Saturday and we’ll give it our all. But we’ve got to focus on our own performance and not worry about what Oldham do. “We’ve put a good run together. It’s got us into the position and we’ll go out there and do our best.” Carlisle’s second successive home defeat ruled them out of the play-off equation, and there was clearly a sense of injustice over Duffy’s winner. McDonald said, “I saw him either chest it onto his hand or take the ball from hand to his chest and then knock it in. “I’ll have a look at it again on the tape, but, in my opinion, he handled it. It’s not sour grapes, but we certainly deserved a draw. “I thought we were outplayed in the first half, but we got the goal back and caused them a lot of problems. I felt we were the better team after Johann (Smith) took his goal fantastically well. “He got a one-on-one with the goalkeeper after that and, maybe, the square pass was the easiest thing to do. “When you play against the top sides you have to put those chances away. If you don’t, it comes back to haunt you.” Despite falling short of the play-offs, McDonald said the Cumbrians could take pride from their League One baptism after back-to-back promotions. “My players have played to their full potential and done better than most people thought they would,” he said. “People would probably have been happy with 20th after two promotions, but we've bridged the gap.”

Players must be protected, says Martinez 30-04-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail EVER the joker, Lee Trundle smiled about “not fancying himself against 5,000 Carlisle fans.” So it was left to his manager, Roberto Martinez, to express the growing disquiet about late-season pitch invasions which tarnish the image of football and put players’ safety at risk. As the Leeds-Ipswich Championship game was held up for 30 minutes and descended into farce following a pitch stampede, Martinez’ joy at Darryl Duffy’s injury-time winner was diluted by hordes of Carlisle fans racing onto the field. While for some it simply represented tradition at the final home game, for others it was the opportunity to approach the 1,000-strong Swansea support at the far end of Brunton Park. More disturbingly, several Swansea players found their way to the dressing room blocked and it was chilling to see Trundle – heckled by home fans throughout a thrilling contest – confronted by men with children in tow. It was just as well that Cumbria Police had anticipated the danger and dispatched three officers to provide Trundle with an escort off the pitch. But the episode clearly left a sour taste in Martinez’ mouth, coming too just weeks after a disgruntled Tottenham supporter took a swing at Chelsea’s Frank Lampard. “It is difficult to control, but you have to be worried in that situation,” he said. “The Football Association and other big organisations are trying hard, but it is something they need to keep a closer eye on. “They must get better security before the final whistle because the safety of the players is an important issue.” Even before Duffy’s winner the closing stages had been interrupted by an unwanted interloper from the home end. The man breached what passed as a stewards’ cordon and made his way to the halfway line before appearing to become bored with his intrusion. As he retraced his steps there was still little interest in removing him, apart from Swansea defender Izzy Iriekpen, that is, who received an admonishment from referee Phil Joslin for making a move towards him. Unbelievable. “I was concerned about the safety of the players,” admitted Martinez. “The goal happened late in the game, that gets the emotions of the fans going and that can sometimes be dangerous. “It (police protection) was needed because the last three players – Lee Trundle, Izzy Iriekpen and Kris O’Leary – got caught on the pitch with the wave of people. But, thankfully, everyone is fine.” What happened at the final whistle was a crying shame because as a spectacle the showdown between play-off rivals scrapping for the cause had just about everything. Swansea struck in the first and last minutes to just about keep their promotion hopes off a respirator but, in between, there was no shortage of drama with Trundle’s technique and the Olympic pace of Carlisle’s Johann Smith decorating proceedings. “USA, USA,” chanted the home crowd as Smith, the American youngster on loan from Bolton, equalised and induced panic in Swansea ranks with the game on a knife-edge at 1-1. But, as is so often the case, Trundle had the last laugh; requiring only 40 seconds to provide Kent-like tremors and repeat his Football League Trophy final cracker against Carlisle by turning on Leon Britton’s clever assist and rifling home. Trundle would have reached his 20-goal target but for the bravery of goalkeeper Keiren Westwood, but he played a decisive role in the decider as he teed up Iriekpen for the last-gasp shot which Westwood parried to the lurking Duffy. “I’ve said before that when opposing fans don’t like you it means you must be doing something right for your own club,” said Trundle, brushing aside the terrace jeers. “I seem to score early goals against Carlisle (he scored within three minutes at the Millennium Stadium 12 months ago) and it was nice to see it go in. Now all we can do next week is get a win.” Even that may not be enough for Swansea after Yeovil secured fifth spot with a narrow home win over Doncaster and Oldham held onto the last play-off place courtesy of a 2-1 success at Brighton. Oldham’s goal difference remains two better than Swansea’s and the Latics have a far kinder finale with already-relegated Chesterfield at Boundary Park. Swansea welcome fourth-placed Blackpool and the severity of that test was raised by Bristol City’s defeat at Millwall which gives the Tangerines an outside shot at automatic promotion. Whatever happens, Swansea must do better than Oldham and, if the Latics win, overhaul their goal difference with a resounding victory. If the points total and goal difference is level after 46 games, then teams are split by head-to-head results and that spells bad news for Swansea with Oldham enjoying two 1-0 wins this season. “What is in our hands is to perform well,” said Martinez, determined for everyone in his camp to focus on Blackpool rather than the Oldham distraction over 200 miles away. “If we play like we did here, then I think our fans will be proud of us. “We performed from the first minute and I thought we should have had a bigger advantage. “The way we bounced back was fantastic credit to the players. They had to win and it was a great situation that both teams had to win. “The game was really stretched and it was box-to-box with some fantastic moves. “It was a great game for the neutrals as we started really well and then Carlisle threw everything at us.” No-one disputed that description of a dizzy afternoon which began in suitable fashion when the Royal Air Force delivered the match ball close to kick-off in a Puma helicopter. Such was Swansea’s domination in the early stages with Carlisle rocked by the Trundle strike, one wag responded to rumblings overhead by suggesting the RAF had returned to get the ball back. Britton, Andy Robinson and Duffy might have killed off hosts who were toothless until their 4-3-3 formation was ditched at half-time and Smith was unchained from his wide berth to rampage through the middle. Pouncing on Alan Tate’s hesitation, he rounded Willy Gueret for a smart equaliser and almost doomed Swansea to a meaningless final day when he embarrassed substitute Kevin Amankwaah. But Gueret saved brilliantly and Swansea also survived a strong penalty claim when Tate appeared to lean into Jeff Smith’s goal-bound drive with his arm. Some sides would have gone under as the home crowd were whipped into a frenzy, but Martinez has instilled an iron belief in his 11 games at the helm and Swansea kept taking risks. They were finally rewarded three minutes into stoppage time when Iriekpen battered the ball goalwards and Duffy slotted the rebound, despite Carlisle claims that he had handled before prodding home. “To perform like that away from home in a difficult scenario, the boys made everyone very proud,” reflected Martinez before making a quick dash with a flight from Newcastle waiting. A wing....and a prayer. Hold onto your seats on Saturday.

Fear for ace Trundle 30-04-2007

by Paul Abbandonato, Western Mail ROBERTO MARTINEZ admits he feared for Lee Trundle after Carlisle fans surrounded the Swansea City goal ace amid disturbing after-match scenes on Saturday. Trundle had helped set the promotion-chasing Swans on the way to a fantastic 2-1 triumph at Brunton Park, a result that keeps their hopes of reaching the play-offs going until the final day of the season. The Swans need to beat Blackpool at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday, and hope rivals Oldham slip up at home to Chesterfield, to clinch the final League One play-off spot. But their joy at Carlisle was marred when home fans invaded the pitch at the end and some Swans found their way to the dressing room blocked. Police officers had to give Trundle an escort off the pitch, but Martinez was unhappy with what had happened. “You have to be worried in that situation,” said Martinez. “We must get better security before the final whistle because the security of the players is an important issue. “I was concerned about my players. Thankfully, though, everyone was fine.” Looking ahead to what promises to be a tense affair on Saturday, with one eye kept on what is happening at Oldham, Martinez said, “What is in our hands is to perform well. If we play like we did at Carlisle, then I think our fans will be proud of us.”

Swans ready to exploit sorry Oldham 27-04-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail SWANSEA CITY’S Tom Williams says play-off rivals Oldham are “panicking” and claims their captain has told him they won’t win another game this season. Williams is good friends with Latics skipper Will Haining and believes morale in the Boundary Park dressing-room has hit rock bottom after a dreadful run over the last two months. When Oldham won at the Liberty Stadium on February 10, in what was to prove Kenny Jackett’s final game as Swansea manager, the Latics appeared bankers for automatic promotion from League One. But John Sheridan’s side have won only twice in 13 attempts since and, with two games of the regular season remaining, their hold on the play-off positions could not be more fragile. Oldham occupy sixth spot only because their goal difference is two better than Swansea’s – but Williams reckons that will count for nothing in the final week of the campaign. “Oldham are in absolute free-fall, they’ve been falling for a long time and they’re panicking,” said Williams. “They’ll be looking over their shoulders on Saturday and waiting anxiously to see our result at Carlisle. “I know their captain (Haining) well because our girlfriends are good friends. That’s how we met and we’ve known each other for years. “After they beat us at our place he said they felt brilliant and thought they would go up. “But when I spoke to him three weeks ago he told me, ‘I can’t see us winning another game this season.’ “They’ve absolutely gone, the manager’s given them stick and they’re getting abused by their own fans. “That’s just not the way it should be when you’re going for the play-offs, but he said they’re just waiting to be beaten at the moment. “We’ve got nothing to fear because we’re playing so well and everyone’s raring to go.” While Oldham’s nerve will be further tested tomorrow by an energetic Brighton side, who gave Swansea a terrific run for their money last week, Roberto Martinez’ face a potential blockbuster with play-off rivals Carlisle. Martinez’ squad have the luxury of flying north to avoid the long coach journey to Cumbria, but Williams insists fatigue will not be a factor at the business end of the campaign. “It’s cup final after cup final now,” said Williams, who is expected to deputise for injured left-back Marcos Painter at Brunton Park. “But we’re looking forward to it. The boys are in a great mood and the games are becoming fun. “I don’t think there’s any pressure on us because we’re outside the top six. “Last year we sat at the top for a while and everyone wanted to beat us and play their best football against us. “But we’ve sat outside for a few weeks now and put a nice little run together. “We’re in great form and playing good football, I think we know how to keep the ball and beat teams. “We’re going up to Carlisle to enjoy ourselves and when we do that we play our best football. “There’s a lot of rewards at stake because there’s not one player here who doesn’t want to play in the Championship. But it’s different to last season. “We still needed a win on the last day to absolutely guarantee a play-off spot but I think everybody knew we were going to be in there. “But this season we’re coming in from the other end in good form. “The feeling is that once we do get there we could make some impact because teams are going to be frightened of us with the squad we’ve got here.” Two hernia operations have put a dampener on Williams’ season after he appeared to be succeeding in his battle to win over the Swansea faithful. The 26-year-old was making the left-back spot his own but he required surgery in November. So Jackett signed Marcos Painter on loan from Birmingham before making the deal permanent in the January transfer window. Williams would need another operation after Christmas but revolutionary surgery got him back playing again in a fortnight, though he has been a bit-part player since. “To be fair, Marcos has been absolutely fantastic since he came in, he hasn’t put a foot wrong,” said the former Birmingham and QPR player who has made a real impression in recent weeks coming off the bench. “He’s only 20 so I take my hat off to him. The spot was mine but you do get injured and people come in. That’s what happens. “But I’m quite happy to play in front of Marcos, go outside him if it’s a three or play at left-back if he’s not there. “At this time of the season I’m probably one of the fittest in the squad. I’ve benefited from a little rest because of the two injuries I’ve had and I’m making up for lost time. “Injuries are frustrating but you have to take that with the job. “The first couple of days I took it out on the family and the missus, but you just get your head down and work a lot harder when you’re injured.” Now Cyprus international Williams wants to land another Swansea contract having made 50 appearances since joining from Gillingham in January 2006. But he says talks can keep until the end of the season when, hopefully, Swansea will have secured their place in the Championship. “It’s the first time I’ve had less than two years on my contract in nearly 10 years of playing, but it’s not an issue,” he said. “I’ve got great confidence in my own ability – I always have. I’ve played international football, I know this league inside-out and I’ve played nearly 250 games. “I’ve got managers phoning me every week and saying, ‘Can you come and sign for us?’ So I’ve got no worries whatsoever, none at all. “Of course, I’d love to stay. My family’s settled here, I’ve settled here – and I think the fans have just about taken to me! “The club’s geared for the Championship but it’s a difficult situation, you’ve got to see what happens at the end of the season. “It’s simple. Let’s get in the play-offs, let’s get promoted and then let’s talk.”

Welsh clubs in race to sign keeper Garner 27-04-2007

Steve Tucker, Western Mail CARDIFF CITY are looking at signing goalkeeper Glyn Garner from Orient, but face competition for the Welsh international’s signature from Swansea City. The Pontypool-born shotstopper, who has one international cap, is also attracting the interest of Sheffield Wednesday after showing fine form for his League One side this season. But his agent Wayne Elsey insists Garner is still in talks with Orient over a possible new deal. Elsey said, “At the moment we’re talking with Leyton Orient. Glyn is just thinking about helping Orient at the moment and that is what he is concentrating on.” Both the Bluebirds and Swans are in the market for a new keeper this summer. Cardiff’s Neil Alexander is leaving after failing to broker a new deal at Ninian Park, while Swansea’s Andy Oakes’ contract expires in June. Meanwhile Cardiff top-scorer Michael Chopra’s future at Ninian Park is questionable after his representative was at pains to point out the striker will be available in the summer despite recently signing a contract extension with the Bluebirds. Simon Bayliff said Chopra could leave Cardiff for the Premiership if the price was right, with a figure of around £3.75m said to be enough to secure his services. “Michael is allowed to negotiate his release from Cardiff should a certain offer be made to the club from a Premiership club,” said Bayliff “I’m not in the business of promoting my client's business via the media, but I will say that the figure that releases Chopra has been slightly increased under his recently completed contract.” Everton and Manchester City are said to be interested in Chopra, who has 22 goals this campaign but is banned for the rest of the season after being sent off during Cardiff’s defeat at QPR last weekend.

McDonald cautious about Swans' clash 27-04-2007

by Steve Tucker, Western Mail CARLISLE boss Neil McDonald goes into Saturday’s classic six-pointer against Swansea at Brunton Park urging caution from his promotion-chasing players. United lie eighth in League One, one place and one point behind the Swans, as the season reaches a nerve-jangling finale. But ahead of the clash McDonald, pictured, admits he is most anxious his side do not lose, ruling themselves out of the play-off places all together. “The season’s flown by, but it’s certainly finishing off with huge excitement for everybody,” said McDonald, who took over from Paul Simpson at United last summer. “We’ll be going into the game with Swansea now trying to win, but being cautious knowing that we have to try to get something out of the game. “We could take a point to be fair and we’ve got to hope that Oldham are beaten at Brighton. That then goes into the last game and then who knows what might happen? “We’ll be going into the game trying to win, but being cautious knowing that we have to try to get something out of the game, whereas last Saturday we didn’t.” Carlisle were brought crashing back to earth last weekend, when a 3-1 home defeat to Bristol City saw a four-game winning streak come to an abrupt end. McDonald believed the difference between the two sides had been the manner in which second-placed Bristol took what chances they created in front of goal. “Against Bristol City it was a great performance in the first half, I thought that was the best we’d played for quite a while, we totally dominated the first half,” said McDonald. “We probably deserved to be more than 1-0 up, yet we went in at 1-1 with the last-minute goal. That gave Bristol confidence I suppose and just knocked us back a little peg or two. “They’ve come out second half and played some decent stuff, they’ve knocked it about and when their chances came along they took them. I think they’ve only really had two or three chances when you analyse the game. “But good teams and top teams always put it in the back of the net when they get those chances. I think that was the difference between the two teams. “We had been taking our chances and it was certainly no disgrace being beaten by the side who are second top of the table. “It just knocks us back a touch. Training was a little bit quiet to begin with this week because we don’t like being beaten at home and it was a lost opportunity because Oldham were beaten. “The players were feeling sorry for themselves a little bit, but towards the end it’s picked up a little bit and got a little bit nosier. The mickey taking started again. “Now I know they’ll be ready and raring for the visit of Swansea which for me is the hugest game of football this club’s had for quite a while.” McDonald expects the Swans also to be eager to avoid defeat and revealed he thought sixth-placed Oldham, who are without a win in four games, might be the side to drop away from the play-off places. “Oldham do seem to be the ones that are slipping up at the moment,” added McDonald. “When you see snippets in the paper of even their manager having a go at them then that gives you a little bit of hope as well that they are on a downward slope. “Hopefully we haven’t left it too late. Swansea are in exactly the same position, they have to win to be fair to make sure as well. I’m sure it will be an attacking game from both sides. “We talk about the business end of the season and this is definitely the business game. If we lose we’re out of it, if we draw then hopefully we’re still in it, but if we win then we’re right in it. “A victory on Saturday might just push us into the play-off positions ourselves with one game to go.”

IT WON'T BE EASY, BOYS! 26-04-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez has warned that Carlisle are a side built on firm foundations despite Swansea City's demolition job on the Cumbrians earlier this season.Swansea took the wrecking ball to Carlisle in a 5-0 thrashing at the Liberty Stadium back in December. But Martinez insists there is no chance of a repeat drubbing in this weekend's critical Brunton Park rematch. The Spaniard was a Chester player when Rory Fallon's double plus strikes from Dennis Lawrence, Darren Pratley and Andy Robinson condemned Carlisle to their heaviest defeat in nearly four years. But the Swansea boss kept in touch with events in League One back then, and he said: "When Carlisle came to the Liberty they were in the middle of a two-month period where they lost their way a little bit. "They lost many points in that spell and that's why they are fighting for a play-off place with us. "They were very consistent at the beginning of the season and they are finishing it very well, so they could easily be higher up the table now." Carlisle, who are bidding for a third straight promotion, still have many of the players who helped them out of the Conference two years ago. "They have been successful for a couple of years, they have been together for quite a long time and they are a very solid side," Martinez added. "The fact that they have brought in a couple of new players recently in Jeff Smith and Danny Graham and that they have both been successful tells you what a tight unit they are.

Loan star hails boss Martinez 25-04-2007

by Phil Blanche, Western Mail DARRYL DUFFY has hailed Roberto Martinez as his ideal manager – and then invited the Swansea City chief to make a summer move for him. The striker, on loan from Hull until the end of the season, has played a huge role in re-igniting Swansea’s promotion charge with successive Liberty braces against Port Vale and Brighton. Duffy, 23, is looking to quit the Tigers in the summer after failing to establish himself with the Championship strugglers and the Scot has surely grabbed the attention of prospective buyers with four goals in three Swans starts. But the Martinez factor could ensure the former Rangers and Falkirk player remains at the Liberty Stadium. Duffy said, “Roberto Martinez is a top bloke to work for. He’s a nice guy and I love playing for him. “He looks after you and he’s a manager who really knows his football. “He isn’t interested in any long-ball stuff. He wants to play the game on the deck and that suits me perfectly. “His training sessions are always enjoyable because we’re always doing something different. “I’ve not given much thought to next season – but if the gaffer wants to sign me then I’d definitely consider it. “This loan spell has put me in the shop window. It’s a massive chance for me. “I would be interested in staying at Swansea, definitely. “I really enjoy living in the city. My girlfriend, Claire, has moved down with me and she loves it down here as well. “I’m going to give it my all for Swansea in these last few games and we’ll see what comes from that.” Duffy joined the Swans on an emergency loan last month and started his first three games on the bench as he built up his fitness. Martinez handed him his first start against Port Vale on Easter Monday and he repaid the Spaniard’s faith with two goals. And the Glaswegian was the toast of the Liberty Stadium again last Saturday when he turned round a 1-0 deficit to Brighton. Duffy added, “I’m at an age where I need to be playing first-team football and Roberto Martinez has given me that opportunity. “I’ve got a chance to show people what I can do. “Lee Trundle is a great striker to play with and I think we’ve shown we can play together up front. “I wasn’t getting games at Hull. If you’re given an opportunity to play and you don’t perform then you can’t complain about not being in the side. “But I just wasn’t getting an opportunity at Hull. “I’ve made only nine starts for them – and that’s not even a start a month!” Duffy joined the Tigers in January 2006 in a £250,000 switch from Falkirk where he was a big favourite after helping the Bairns reach the Scottish Premier League with 37 goals in 66 starts. But his future was thrown into doubt when Peter Taylor – the man who signed him – packed his bags for Crystal Palace last summer. He explained, “When I left for Swansea there were nine other strikers at Hull – it was ridiculous. “I don’t want to watch football in the stands or from the sidelines. I’m not happy doing that. “It hasn’t worked out the way I had hoped at Hull after Peter Taylor left the club. “There have been two managers since he left and it has been difficult for me.” Swansea is Duffy’s second loan spell this season. He enjoyed a successful stint at Hartlepool, netting five goals in 10 outings. And after his recent maagic for the Swans, Hull boss Brown can expect a few calls regarding his Scottish marksman at the end of the season. Duffy continued, “To be honest I’m not trying to think about my future because all my focus is on helping Swansea make the play-offs. “We’ve got two games and I’m 100 per cent focused on doing that. I can’t be thinking about what’s going to happen in the summer. “It would be massive if we can finish in the top six. The club is equipped to play at the next level. Everything is in place.”

O'Leary set for final push 24-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail BACK in the days before global warming you knew it was April when those pesky showers came along. Now it's sunshine and sunscreen all the way and the only thing you can set your April diary by is another hairy end to a Swansea City campaign. But the club's longest-serving player would not expect to have it any other way. Kris O'Leary, now in his testimonial season, has seen it all in a dozen roller-coaster years at Swansea. Title glory, play-off finals, relegation battles and even the scary scrap for league survival figure on the O'Leary cv. Rarely, if ever, is it dull out west and the conclusion to the 2006-07 season is no different with Swansea currently out of the play-off places by virtue of Oldham's slightly superior goal difference. Two games to make up two goals on the Latics, even the run-in has a final chapter worthy of an Agatha Christie cliffhanger. Carlisle, one point behind the Swans going into the final fortnight, and fourth-placed Blackpool are the closing opponents on the fixture list for Roberto Martinez' men. Tame, it won't be. "It's pressure but I do enjoy it; it would be pretty boring if we didn't have anything going on," smiled O'Leary, who has now made more than 300 appearances for Swansea and among the most consistent performers of late following a mid-term loan spell at Cheltenham. "Over the last few years we always seem to have something on the last game. But I wouldn't like it if we came to this stage of the season with nothing to play for." O'Leary is among the handful of survivors from Swansea's last trip to Carlisle, a 2-1 victory in September 2003. Since then Carlisle have suffered relegation to the Conference before enjoying a spectacular ascent, first under Paul Simpson and now Neil McDonald. Though not a venue Swans fans would have selected for such a vital end-of-season finale - "they might need a couple of days off work to get up there," jokes O'Leary - the players remain focused on the job in hand. "All the years I've been up there it's never been an easy place to go and play football," said the midfielder. "But we'll go there with a positive attitude. There's no point hoping things just happen, we'll be going all out for the result. "Of course, there is pressure on it but the boys are now thinking that we can do this. "We've got more belief in our play and the way we go about the games. We'll definitely be confident going up to Carlisle. "You've got to remember there's going to be pressure on them as well and I'm sure they'll have memories of the (Football League Trophy) cup final last year. Swansea won that showpiece game at the Millennium Stadium 2-1 and thrashed Carlisle 5-0 at the Liberty Stadium earlier this season. But O'Leary knows Carlisle will be tougher opposition this Saturday, even though their own play-off hopes took a dive when Bristol City won 3-1 at Brunton Park last weekend. "It would be nice to go up there and guarantee that we beat them 4-0. But that's not going to happen," he said. "These games are tough and a few of the boys were saying after Brighton on Saturday that it's one of the hardest games we've had. "You just want to get the job done and not concede anything in the last few minutes. We knew a goal would cost us dearly. "As the manager says, 90 minutes could improve everyone's life at the club and in the city. "You could feel the relief when the final whistle went against Brighton - and I'd rather be on the pitch than in the stand at Carlisle!" Swansea expect to have left-back Marcos Painter available for the long trip north. Painter was forced off at half-time in the 2-1 win over Brighton with an ankle injury, but scan results yesterday revealed bruising rather than ligament damage.

By Gerrit van Leeuwen 23-04-2007

Swans tipped for Dutch raid Swansea are being tipped to make a summer raid on ADO Den Haag for Ferry Bodde. The midfielder is rumoured to be unhappy at ADO and is not looking to remain at the club following their relegation from the Eredivisie. The 24-year-old has one more year left on his contract at ADO, but they could contemplate cashing in this summer and Swansea are being linked with a bid. John van Zweden is one of Swansea's associate directors and, having been born in Den Haag, is aware of Bodde's talents. The Swans are reported to have had Bodde watched recently and Van Zweden feels a deal could be struck. "Ferry is unhappy at ADO," Van Zweden told Algemeen Dagblad. "The club has told me they are looking to cooperate, so I expect he can leave the club for a relatively low transfer fee."

Duff info the only news that counts for Swans 23-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail Peculiar things, play-off races. When nerves are shredded, when every goal counts (just study those League One goal difference columns) and cheers ring round grounds when rivals are on the losing end elsewhere. Well, that last one to inform your players what is happening around the country is the theory. In practice at the Liberty Stadium, it appears to be a different story. If Swansea needed any encouragement to hang on to a slender lead - and hang on was the operative phrase as Brighton mounted a fierce second-half assault - it came in the form of Oldham and Carlisle suffering a dose of the play-off jitters. Updates flashed on to the Liberty scoreboard were supposed to galvanise a Swansea side creaking like floorboards in a haunted house. But the reality was somewhat different as the gap to that all-important sixth spot was reduced to fractions. 'I heard a cheer but I just thought it was Cardiff getting beat,' said Swans defender Alan Tate, restored to both the starting line up and the captaincy after recent suspension. 'As soon as you hear a cheer you just think that's what it is. It didn't really register that (the scores) was our league. 'But it shows what the play-offs are like. There's a big prize at the end of it - and Cardiff is one of those prizes.' Had they employed a Hollywood writer, Swansea fans could not have scripted Saturday's roller-coaster better. As Oldham's collapse continued at pace and Carlisle's confidence was crushed by guests Bristol City seeking automatic promotion, Swansea held their nerve as grit and guts replaced the free-flowing football of the first period. Whatever happens at Carlisle on Saturday, Swansea will have something to fight for on the last day of the season at home to Blackpool. Blackpool have secured a play-off place and are possible semi-final opponents. But the stage is set for a real humdinger at Brunton Park as Swansea head north for their biggest game since last season's play-off final defeat to Barnsley. 'Our three points and the other results going our way makes next week's game even bigger,' stressed Tate. 'It gives you a buzz when you see your rivals losing. 'We needed someone to get beat and it's given everyone at the club and the supporters a lift. 'A draw might be enough at Carlisle, but we're going there for the win to put it in our hands on the last day.' Though Oldham could have something to say about that with the slightly superior goal difference, there was as much a feeling of relief as jubilation after Brighton book-ended the contest in control. The last Liberty outing had seen mid-table Port Vale turn up with summer holidays in mind and produced as spineless a performance as witnessed in League One all season. Brighton, in a similar position with little to play for other than pride, were a far different animal and Alex Revell underlined their intent when profiting from some non-existent marking to dispatch Sam Rents' 14th minute free-kick. But Swansea are fast developing the title of 'Comeback kids' under boss Roberto Martinez and there were echoes of Northampton and Bournemouth as Darryl Duffy's double before half-time turned the tide. Duffy is also proof that Martinez appears to have the Midas touch in the transfer market as well as on match day, his solitary signing to date having registered four goals in three starts. His second successive Liberty brace came in the space of 20 first-half minutes, first showing great awareness to latch onto Tate's assist with a clever header and then chesting down Andy Robinson's diagonal ball to execute a stunning shot from distance. No wonder Martinez wants to keep the Hull striker, who is supplying a cutting edge to his team; but for now it is the team focusing his concentration. 'The way we turned the game round was fantastic,' said the Spaniard, who has now won six and drawn three of his 10 games to revive Swansea's season in dramatic style. 'Everyone expects you to win these games but they're always difficult. Sometimes the pressure to get three points stops you doing the basics. 'We got punished with the goal but we adapted with some of the best football we've played since I've been here.' Brighton's goal led a charmed life between Duffy's strikes but after that the surprisingly below-average Liberty crowd had to chew fingernails and watch the clock tick down in painstakingly slow fashion. Home attacks ran out of steam as Duffy and Lee Trundle - at his showboating, brilliant best in the first period - became increasingly marginalised and the bright Brighton youngsters that Martinez had warned about discovered new energy levels. They were worth an equaliser and might have had a penalty when Ian Craney felled Adam El-Abd just inside the area. But the Seagulls realised it was not to be their day when Dean Cox smacked an upright from 20 yards and Willy Gueret foiled substitutes Nathan Elder and Nick Ward deep into injury time. 'We showed two faces,' admitted Martinez. 'The first one being on the ball and expressing ourselves, the second one of determination and keeping the win. 'But Brighton had nothing to lose and I'm glad to be playing someone like Carlisle next week, someone who is involved in something. 'Everyone will expect Carlisle to win that game but it is down to us to upset the odds. 'Our challenge was always to take it into the last day and we have done that. I've always said that if we'd get our points tally then I'm sure we'll be fine - we'd be in the play-offs. 'Now people are starting to look at Swansea as one of the dangerous teams in the way we are playing football, creating chances and getting results. That's the image we want to give and now we've got two massive games in front of us.' As their team had tried to spoil the party, the small band of Brighton fans had sung, 'We'll see you all next year.' Don't bet on it quite yet.

Darryl' s future is in Hull's hands 23-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail Match-winner Darryl Duffy has been told to forget about his future and focus on firing Swansea City into the play-offs. Duffy, on loan from Hull City, took his Swans goal tally to four in three starts as a second successive Liberty Stadium double secured a precious victory for Roberto Martinez' men. Martinez would like to sign the Scottish striker on a permanent basis at the end of the season but the Spaniard doesn't want Duffy distracted for the moment. 'I just want him to enjoy his football,' said Martinez of his solitary signing as Swansea manager. 'If you've got a player who keeps scoring two at every home game it would be stupid not to want to keep him. 'Darryl is a joy to work with but his future is in Hull's hands, not mine.' Duffy spent his first few weeks at Swansea warming the bench as he built up his fitness after being frozen out at the KC Stadium. But since getting the nod against Port Vale on Easter Monday and scoring twice he has brought an extra dimension to the Swansea attack with his pace and movement. 'Darryl has been improving from the first day he came here,' said Martinez, who had noted Duffy's impressive goal-scoring record for both Hull reserves and during a loan spell at Hartlepool. 'He has adapted to Swansea and our football club and he has got a fantastic attitude. 'Some of his clever movement is a joy to watch and his finishing again was up to a top standard. 'His second goal was worthy of winning any game; he took it in fantastic fashion. 'He has got that little bit of pace and clever movement on defenders' backs and you could see Brighton were trying to keep a high line and really condense the midfield. 'But Darryl has got the weapons to punish sides who try to do that.' On a day when Duffy's predatory touch closed the play-off gap with both Oldham and Carlisle losing, there was only one blot on the Swansea landscape. Less than 12,000 - nearly 500 below the season-average - turned up on a glorious day to cheer Martinez' men to victory. 'It's disappointing when you look at the numbers because we have got a bigger fan base,' said Martinez. 'But what is important is the attitude of the ones who were here rather than the ones who weren't. 'They were fantastic from the first minute, encouraging the team and giving them that extra lift we needed. It really made a difference. They were fantastic and really influenced the scoreline at the end. 'I'm sure our other fans were following us from a distance and looking forward to joining us in our last home game of the season.'

Swansea sweat on Painter fitness 23-04-2007

BBCi Roberto Martinez is hoping for good news on Marcos Painter's injury Swansea face an anxious wait over the severity of the injury Marcos Painter suffered in the 2-1 win over Brighton that kept their play-off hopes alive. The full-back has been a cornerstone of the defence since Roberto Martinez took charge at the Liberty Stadium. Painter was forced off after 46 minutes and needs a scan on a leg injury. Swans boss Roberto Martinez said: "We are very concerned about Marcos, he's going to go to the hospital to find out about the injury." The come-from-behind win over the Seagulls, with on-loan Hull striker Daryl Duffy grabbing both Swansea goals, leaves Swansea on the cusp of the play-offs. The Welsh club are level on points with Oldham, who sit in the final play-off spot courtesy of a goal difference just two better than the Swans. But the loss of Painter for the final two games of the regular League One season, away to Carlisle next Saturday and then home to Blackpool the following week, would be a blow. "There is a problem in his right fibula and that was the big negative in our win," Martinez added. "We hope that Marcos can get back very, very soon and we'll look forward to the next game with the bravest face we've got."

Britton is hoping to see a homecoming 21-04-2007

Western Mail LEON BRITTON has selfish reasons for reaching the Championship with Swansea City, writes Phil Blanche. For Britton (left) could end up going back to his old East End manor next season with West Ham United seemingly doomed to drop out of the Premiership. The Hammers 4-1 midweek defeat to Chelsea leaves Alan Curbishley's men with a mountain to climb to retain their top-flight status - and their predicament hasn't been lost on Britton. "I watched the Chelsea game and it looks like they're going down," said Britton, the former Hammers trainee who failed to make a first-team appearance at Upton Park before joining Swansea in the 2002-03 season. "I still keep an eye out for their results and watch their games on television and I would like them to stay in the Premiership. "But to have two fixtures against West Ham next season would be great, though the main thing is getting Swansea in the Championship." West Ham's fall from grace has been amazing as it's less than 12 months since they were in the top half of the Premiership and minutes away from winning the FA Cup. It's been a downward spiral ever since with the Hammers' troubled season featuring the takeover of the club by Icelandic magnate Eggert Magnusson and the sacking of Alan Pardew. "I've been really surprised with their season, especially with the money Magnusson's put in," said Britton, 24. "They signed a lot of players for a lot of money in January, but even a good manager like Curbishley hasn't been able to turn it round. "When you consider how well they did last season, it's strange how their season has worked out." But West Ham's plight will be the furthest thing from Britton's mind today as Swansea seek to keep their play-off hopes alive at home to Brighton. Britton was at his brilliant best as Swansea salvaged a point at Bournemouth last Saturday and he doesn't expect an easy ride against a Brighton side safe from the threat of relegation. "Even if teams aren't playing for things, then players are playing for contracts," he said. "You could tell when we got the early goal against Port Vale in our last home game that they weren't at the races. "But we've seen it work the other way when a team's got no pressure on them. They can relax and sometimes players play better when that happens. "So there's no chance we will underestimate Brighton."

Play-off brush a new ball game for Painter 21-04-2007

Western Mail THREE games to go, nine points at stake - but don't mention the word pressure to Marcos Painter. The baby of Swansea City's play-off contenders is enjoying every minute of the thrill of the chase in League One. Because, as the 20-year-old defender is quick to point out, the alternative would have been stewing in Birmingham City's reserves... and wondering whether he'd get a hot shower after games! "I do think about it quite often, where would I be playing today if I hadn't joined Swansea?" said the £75,000 January transfer-window recruit. "My dad rang me the other day to say he went to watch the Birmingham reserves play. "He said they were all young lads, about 16 or 17, and then it really hit home. "I'd spent three years in the reserves there and Steve Bruce (Birmingham manager) said to me I'd gone as far with them and the style of football as I could. "We played at Solihull Borough's ground and got decent crowds for the derbies against Aston Villa or West Brom, but a lot of the time only about 30 to 50 people were there at the most. "It's not the best of places and sometimes only one shower worked. But the main difference is that there's no real importance to the games in reserve-team football. "There's nothing better than playing on a Saturday at three o'clock. The crowds are a lot bigger and there's a lot more pressure on the games because you need to pick up points. "There's something to achieve for every club and that's definitely the case at Swansea." It usually is at Swansea where Liberty pillars such as Alan Tate, Leon Britton and Lee Trundle among others are battle-hardened when it comes to what Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson memorably referred to as "squeaky bum time". Even Dennis Lawrence (Wrexham), Ian Craney (Accrington Stanley) and Kevin Amankwaah (Yeovil) know the feeling of being at the right end of the league and striving for success. But Painter - part of Birmingham's failed attempt to stay in the Premiership last season - said, "This is the first time I've been in this situation and it's a good learning curve for me. "The only thing I've experienced is a relegation battle, but in many ways there's not a great deal of difference. "In both situations you're still looking for maximum points. "But being near the top you can feel the excitement around the whole place. "The lads are enjoying the whole experience because everyone wants to get into the play-offs and win promotion so much. "Even in training there's a different feel about things knowing our last three games are so important." Left-back Painter has made 22 appearances since making his Swans debut as a loan signing in the 2-0 win at Port Vale in November. The move was made permanent in January, but one of Kenny Jackett's last signings was left to wonder what the future would hold after the manager surprisingly resigned a few weeks later. "Since I've come here, I've enjoyed every minute of it," said Birmingham-born Painter. "The football's been excellent and the new gaffer's completely changed things at the club for the good. "But, to be honest, I was worried when the manager (Jackett) left because he had brought me in. "That's part and parcel of football, but I had to start again and impress the new manager." Painter has done just that as he has become a regular under Martinez, even shining at centre-back recently when injuries struck. And now he is focusing on the final three games, starting at home to Brighton today before potential closing blockbusters against play-off rivals Carlisle and Blackpool. "It's down to us now to get the results if we are going to make the play-offs," he said. "I don't pay too much attention to other teams' results. We've got to focus on our own performances and our own consistency. "If a team above us does slip up, we've got to make sure that we play well enough to have taken advantage "We've got three games left and we probably need maximum points to get into the play-offs. "But what I've realised in this league is that there are no easy games. "You can't get carried away and start thinking about your next game. You've just got to concentrate on what you've got ahead of you. "Everyone knows that once you get in the play-offs it's a lottery really, so we've just got to try and get in there and give it a good go." Swansea City v Brighton - Your at-a-glance guide Swansea City: Probable: Gueret, R Duffy, Lawrence, Iriekpen, Painter, Britton, Tate, Craney, Robinson, Trundle, D Duffy. Subs: (from) Oakes, Amankwaah, O'Leary, Williams, Butler, Abbott. Player to watch - Darryl Duffy: Has added extra dimension with his desire to scamper behind defenders. Brighton: Probable: Flinders, El-Abd, Rehman, Butters, Rents, Revell, Bertin, Loft, Cox, Robinson, Savage. Subs: Kuipers, Elphick, Gatting, Fraser, Bakayaga. Player to watch - Bas Savage: The big frontman is a real handful for defenders and has scored some spectacular goals this season. Referee: Andy Hall (West Midlands). Form guide: Roberto Martinez has won three and drawn one of his four games at the Liberty, losing only one of nine in total. Brighton have won only one of their last nine and lost their last three. Bookies' odds: Swansea 8-15, Brighton 9-2, draw 5-2 (Ladbrokes). Phil Blanche's verdict: Could be an edgy afternoon, but Swansea to keep the play-off flame flickering. Home win.

Western Mail 20-04-2007

Martinez vows to know the play-off score ROBERTO MARTINEZ will keep his ear to the ground to take Swansea City right to the play-off wire. As the League One season draws to a fascinating finale, Martinez believes goal difference could prove decisive and plans to get regular updates from games involving Swansea's promotion rivals. Swansea have three games to bridge a three-point gap on Oldham and reach the play-offs for the second successive season. "If you go into games thinking what's happening elsewhere then that's not ideal," said Swans boss Martinez. "But it's part of our job to know what's going on. It would be foolish to say we're just going to get our result and that's it. "One goal can be massive because goal difference could be worth an extra point. "We need to get as much information as we can and then use it, because that could be the difference to getting in the play-offs or not." Should goal difference solve the play-off equation, then eighth-placed Swansea might be well-placed to sneak into the end-of-season lottery. The Swans have four goals to make up on Oldham (+21), but their goal difference is far healthier than fifth-placed Yeovil (+12) and seventh-placed Carlisle (+5). "Four teams are going for two spots, and whoever is on better form, will get into the play-offs," said Martinez. "As I've said, it could come down to goal difference and I will rely on my staff to know the scores elsewhere. "Graeme Jones or Colin Pascoe will have the updates. It happened at Bournemouth on Saturday when we had the scores on the dot. "It's important to make sure that information is right and transmit it to the players if we have to." All week, talk has centred on the potentially decisive trip to fellow play-off contenders Carlisle in eight days' time. But Martinez knows that visit to Brunton Park will count for nothing if Swansea do not take care of Brighton at the Liberty Stadium tomorrow. "We've got three massive games and it's pointless to start talking about how important is one or the other," he said. "We're looking at it as a package, nine points to be won, and the most important game is Brighton because that is the first one. "To earn the right of playing against Carlisle with a great chance of being in the play-offs, we have to get a good result against Brighton. "If we don't perform against Brighton, then the Carlisle game won't be as big as everyone expects it to be." Brighton are safe from relegation in 16th place and their players have little to play for other than personal pride. But Martinez expects a sterner test than the one that Port Vale - who were in a similar situation to Brighton - gave in a limp Easter Monday performance at the Liberty Stadium. "It would be a big mistake to underestimate Brighton, they are a very talented side," he said. "Playing against sides that are safe at this stage of the season can be very dangerous. "When you play against sides that are involved in something it's not difficult to get your focus and concentration. "When we played Port Vale it was in a period when both sides had two games in three days, and they let a goal in after 20 minutes. Maybe, psychologically, that really affected them. "But this is a completely different situation. Brighton have got a young and fully-fit squad and they've had a week to prepare for the game." Swansea hope to have key midfielder Andy Robinson back after a two-game absence with hamstring trouble. Robinson could replace Tom Butler on the left, but Shaun MacDonald and Chris Jones have not recovered from injuries in time to be among the substitutes.

Swans hint at transfer change 19-04-2007

SkySports By James Evans Swansea City chairman Huw Jenkins has told supporters that more work needs to be done on the club's approach to signing new players. Jenkins admitted that The Swans had made errors in their squad recruitment over the past 18 months, particularly in the January transfer window. "I don't think January is a good time to be buying new players," Jenkins told Real Radio. "We've not had too much success from players being recruited then and there are many reasons why many people will say the January transfer window isn't much good for the game." And reference was drawn to strikers Leon Knight and Rory Fallon, who were both allowed to move on in January having signed for the club one year earlier and failed to settle. Jenkins said that new manager Roberto Martinez was casting his net far and wide in the search for new talent, and that supporters should not rule out the chance of players joining from abroad. He also revealed how the rookie boss was the most difficult person he had ever had to negotiate with over a contract. "If Roberto is as clever with other players' contract as he was with his own then the club is in safe hands," he finished.

Lynch out of Swansea trip 19-04-2007

Brighton Argus By Andy Naylor Albion will have to cope without Joel Lynch for the second game running at Swansea on Saturday. The highly rated young centre half is still suffering from glandular fever and has already been ruled out of the trip to Wales by boss Dean Wilkins. "He is not available, he hasn't been training," Wilkins said. "Apparently, he slept all day at home the other day. "We thought it would be a week to ten days but we have just got to see how he is. "I think he is feeling very tired and he is definitely out for Saturday." Last Saturday's home defeat by Bradford City was only the fourth match Lynch has missed this season. He has made 48 appearances, more than any other player. Zesh Rehman will partner Guy Butters again in Lynch's absence. Meanwhile, Alex Revell is likely to start on the bench once more at the Liberty Stadium. The former Braintree striker is due to have a hernia operation at the end of the season. The problem ruled him out at Tranmere on Easter Monday and Revell was hurting after replacing Tommy Fraser early in the second half against Bradford. Wilkins said: "We are nursing him slightly, in the same way as we did with Dean Hammond. "He trained on Monday and Tuesday and looked okay. "I expect him to be available, the question mark is whether he can go a full 90 minutes."

SEVEN UP! MARTINEZ'S NEW HOPE 18-04-2007

Evening Post Roberto Martinez has lowered the bar in Swansea City's play-off chase by declaring: "Seven points could get us there." The Swansea boss had been adamant wins were required from the club's three remaining League One games to secure a top-six place. A trio of maximums would have fulfilled his long-time target of seven victories from the last 10 fixtures of the season, but Martinez has now reset his sights. The Spaniard believes Swansea can give themselves some margin for error in the final push - if they can plunder a bucketful of goals. ''Last season 71 points was enough to give us a play-off spot in our division,'' he said. ''I don't think it will be that low this season, but it could well come down to goal difference. ''At the moment Oldham are four goals better off than us. That could change this weekend and that's something we need to keep in mind because it could end up as the difference between the sides. ''If we can turn the goal difference in our favour, then two wins and a draw would get us a play-off place. ''If we can't turn the goal difference around then it will have to be three wins. That?s how simple it is.?? Swansea now look to be competing with three other sides for two play-off places. Yeovil, currently fifth, are in danger of slipping out of contention after just two wins in six, but host already-relegated Rotherham this weekend and look to have a fairly simple run-in. Sixth-placed Oldham have been on a dreadful run, winning just two of their 11 matches since victory at the Liberty Stadium in February, but they too have a decent-looking end to the season. Then come Carlisle, who have won five in a row to emerge from mid-table but face Bristol City and Scunthorpe either side of a mouthwatering clash with Swansea a week on Saturday. ??There are four teams going for two places so we have a 50 per cent chance at the moment,?? Martinez added. ??People always look at the table, but I?ve always said it?s the points tally that counts and we have to recognise that Brighton this weekend could be a four-point game. ??First and foremost we need to win, but we may have to use the game to maximum effect by scoring goals too. ??I?m not saying we?re just going to turn up and beat Brighton ? I think the boys know we won?t beat anyone in this division if the attitude and application isn?t right. ??But we?re in good form, fitness-wise we?re looking strong ? as we showed in the second half at Bournemouth ? and we know we have the quality if the concentration is right.??Despite the need for goals, Martinez will not order a shoot-on-sight policy against mid-table Brighton. ??We created 17 chances against Bournemouth, 18 against Port Vale and 16 against Bristol City, so if we keep going like that I?m sure the goals will come,?? he said. Swansea, meanwhile, are reporting healthy ticket sales for the Brighton game, while Blackpool are expected to bring around 2,000 fans to the Liberty on the final day. Bristol City boss Gary Johnson has escaped punishment after being sent to the stands during Swansea?s draw at Ashton Gate over Easter. Johnson was dismissed after coming on to the pitch and tackling Izzy Iriekpen, but the Football Association have opted only to ?remind him of his responsibilities?.

Watch out for Carlisle, Swans urged 18-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail FORMER England star Darren Anderton has warned Swansea City to beware in-form Carlisle in the race for play-off glory. Veteran Anderton, now enjoying a successful career swansong at Bournemouth, has seen both promotion rivals at close quarters in the last week or so. Bournemouth crashed 3-1 at Carlisle on Easter Monday before holding Swansea to a 2-2 draw on the south coast last weekend. The Cumbrians - one place and one point off Oldham, who hold the last play-off spot - now have a two-point lead over Swansea with three games left. But Swansea head north to Carlisle for the penultimate game of the season on Saturday week - and Anderton reckons the winner of that game will make the top six. "Oldham seem to be having a bit of a wobble," said the ex-Tottenham star, now 35. "And it's usually the teams that come from off the pace and get in there at the last minute that do well in the play-offs. "We played Carlisle last week and they're the team that's going well at the moment. "They've got no superstars, but they've got a good team ethic and they're decent. We didn't start well and they punished us." Carlisle - beaten 5-0 at the Liberty Stadium in Swansea - have roared into play-off contention on the back of five straight wins which has seen 13 goals scored and only one conceded. But Swansea have also put their season back on track since Roberto Martinez took charge at the end of February, losing only one of the Spaniard's nine games in charge. "When you've got players like Swansea have then you've got a chance," said Anderton, who was impressed by their fighting qualities in scoring twice in the last seven minutes at Bournemouth to force a draw. "They never gave up and they're obviously on a good little run at the moment. "But they're probably going to have to win their last three games to get in there, but they're more than capable of doing that. "Unfortunately, they're looking on other people's results to go their way as well. "If they were to get in the play-offs, then I'd think they are in with a chance of going up. "Normally someone gets in there on the last day of the season, so that's what Swansea will be hoping for. "But Carlisle is definitely a game Swansea need to win." Meanwhile, Swansea are hoping key midfielder Andy Robinson will be fit for Saturday's crunch visit of Brighton. Robinson has missed the last two games with a hamstring strain after he had been dropped to the bench for the goalless draw at Bristol City, sustaining the injury when he came on at Ashton Gate. "It's a soft-tissue injury which makes it difficult to predict when he will be back," said Martinez. "But his application has been first-class and we have to be optimistic that he will be ready for Brighton. "We want him involved because Andy's shown time after time since he first arrived at Swansea City that he's a match-winner. "He is an unpredictable player. He's hard to mark and when he's on song he can score goals from any kind of position. "His hunger and desire on the pitch affects other players and he is someone I believe can play at a higher level." Tom Butler should shake off an ankle problem, though his selection may be in doubt after an indifferent display at Bournemouth. Shaun MacDonald (calf), Darren Pratley and Steve Watt (both shoulder) are nearing returns as well as they join first-team training this week.

ROCKET WAS KEY 16-04-2007

Evening Post Lee Trundle has revealed that a rare rocket from Roberto Martinez was key to Swansea City's late salvage job at Bournemouth on Saturday.Swansea were heading for a second defeat in nine matches under Martinez after goals from Marc Wilson and David McGoldrick. But Alan Tate gave them hope with a spectacular half-volley seven minutes from the end and Trundle poked home his 18th goal of the season at the death to snatch what could prove a vital draw. And Swansea's Scouse skipper admitted: "We came in at half-time and got a good rollicking from the gaffer which was exactly what we deserved. "We weren't at it in the first half. We didn't show enough passion or desire and Bournemouth got on top of us. They got the goal and dominated and if we want to get out of this league, we can't go to places like Bournemouth and let that happen. "The gaffer pointed that out to us. That's the way he is if things aren't going well or if we're not doing the things he says and he had every right to be like that. "I've seen him like that when he was player - that's the way you are if you have got passion for the game like he has and you want to win like he does. "It was exactly what we needed at half-time and thankfully we came out in the second half and showed good character to earn a good point in the circumstances. "A brilliant finish from Tatey gave us a massive lift and it's just a shame it didn't come a bit earlier, because I think we might have ended up with the win if we'd had a bit more time." Martinez's mood was not lifted by news that Carlisle's fifth successive victory had seen his team drop to eighth in League One. But the gap to the play-off places was actually trimmed to three points this weekend, and Swansea believe they will make the top six if they can win beat Brighton, Carlisle and Blackpool in the last three weeks of the campaign. "It's still all to play for," reckoned Trundle. "But what will be disappointing is if the point we got at Bournemouth counts for nothing. We don't want it to come down to the two points we dropped. "We now have to beat Brighton next Saturday to set up Carlisle, because it looks like it could hinge on that one."

Roberto's rocket is launch pad for comeback 16-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail SUAVE and sophisticated, Roberto Martinez does not fit the stereotype of managers throwing tea-cups or stripping paint off dressing-room walls at half-time. But the "hairdryer" effect - should that be secador de pelo? - blew new life into Swansea's play-off ambitions just as his men appeared to be capsizing at the seaside. Trailing through the sort of woeful set-piece marking which has been a familiar achilles heel for Swansea, Martinez read the riot act with promotion rivals also on the back foot elsewhere at half-time. It did not have an instant impact as Bournemouth doubled their advantage in seeking the win which would guarantee their League One safety. But Alan Tate's 25-yard thunderbolt, as vicious as it was rare, and Lee Trundle's johnny-on-the-spot finish crowned a frenzied comeback in the final seven minutes. On the balance of play Swansea probably deserved it and, though Carlisle's win dropped them a position to eighth, defeats for Yeovil and Oldham blew the play-off race wide open. That Swansea are still, in Grand National parlance in the running at the 'Elbow', is down as much to Martinez as the steely quality of his players. Just listen to Trundle after his 18th goal of the season two minutes from time rekindled the club's Championship dream. "We came in at half-time and the gaffer's given us a good rollocking," said Trundle, declining to reveal whether Martinez swears in English or Spanish. "That's what we deserved, we weren't at it and they were the better side. "But the boss is like that if it's not going well and we're not doing the things that he's saying. "I've seen it plenty of times when he was a player, he shows his passion for the game because he wants to win. "When that happens you deserve to get told, you do need that from a manager. "He's got every right to do that and I thought, second half, we came out and showed good character to get a point. "On the first-half performance we didn't deserve anything, but the lads responded to the gaffer and showed good character." If Martinez was all fire and brimstone at the interval, Cherries' fans were basking in the glorious summer-like sunshine seemingly relieved that their season-long relegation battle was at last over. Pulling Bournemouth strings was Darren Anderton, the man known as 'Sick Note' during his Premiership pomp because so many games did he miss. But it was Swansea's promotion ambitions which were under the weather when Warren Cummings' corner found the unmarked head of on-loan Portsmouth midfielder Marc Wilson. "The way we started the game was not of a team that wants to get promoted," said Martinez. "You can't start thinking things are just going to happen. You have to make sure that you have the platform to show your talent. "I don't think we did that, the concentration at the start wasn't there and we gave Bournemouth a great starting point." The evidence of the opening 15 minutes of the second half suggested it was definitely not going to be Swansea's day. Trundle's hasty free-kick was deflected and scrambled onto a post by home goalkeeper Neil Moss and Darryl Duffy's follow-up effort, which crossed the line after crashing off the crossbar, was ruled out for offside. Worse was to follow when James Hayter sped onto Wilson's raking diagonal ball and squared for David McGoldrick to finish smartly on the hour. At that stage, despite changing to a brave 4-3-3 formation, Swansea fans were contemplating a meaningless final three games. But when Tate thumped home only his second Swansea goal, a scorching half-volley with his 'wrong' left foot after Darryl Duffy had stabbed against a post, the travelling support suddenly believed. The Bournemouth box resembled the siege of the Alamo as Dennis Lawrence and Izzy Iriekpen became makeshift strikers and fellow substitutes Tate and Tom Williams supplied a steady stream of awkward crosses beyond men they had replaced. Swansea's corner count had risen to 14 when the excellent Leon Britton mustered enough energy for one more shot. The ball was blocked, but substitute Pawel Abbott's low drive was only parried by Moss to the lurking Trundle. "When you get something out of games when you don't expect, it gives you a little boost," said Martinez. "We've learned a huge lesson if we are to get into the play-offs, it is a much-needed kick up the backside. "There are many positives to take from the last 25 minutes, and the main one is that we showed the character of a good team. "From the first second of the second half the reaction the boys showed was good. The urgency of their game was completely different." So, Swansea head into the final three games - at home to Brighton and Blackpool and a potentially decisive trip to Carlisle on Saturday week - with the gap to sixth place now standing at three points. Having said that, Swansea needed seven wins from their last 10 games to reach the play-offs, Martinez' was consistent in what is required after four wins in that sequence so far. "We have three games left and we need three wins. The last nine points can only come from three victories," he said. "I wouldn't say if this is a point gained or two lost because every point is one towards our points tally. The draw is only good or bad depending upon the next result, and we're counting on the Liberty crowd with two of our last three games at home. To have two home fixtures is a massive plus. Even though we're still three points outside the play-off places, I feel our play-off destiny is in our own hands." Only time will tell if that is really going to be the case, 'hairdryer' or not.

Western Mail 13-04-2007

Martinez's plea to Swans fans ROBERTO MARTINEZ has sprung to the defence of Willy Gueret and vowed to stick by his under-fire Swansea City goalkeeper for the promotion run-in. The flamboyant Frenchman was subjected to ironic cheers after his shaky display during the Easter Monday victory over Port Vale at the Liberty Stadium. It's not the first time the League One play-off chasing side's supporters have rounded on the erratic shot-stopper. And it has now led to Swans boss Martinez claiming that some sections of the fans are now waiting for Gueret - who kept successive clean-sheets over the Easter period - to drop his next clanger. Yet the Spaniard has handed his 'keeper a vote of confidence and says he will keep the faith with the 33-year-old for tomorrow's must-win match at relegation-threatened Bournemouth. "Willy had a good game, yet people are still waiting for certain players to make a mistake and get on top of them," he said. "If you analysed his game it was very solid - his starting position was good and his awareness and communication with the back-four was what was expected. "Sometimes players can do nothing wrong in some people's eyes while others at certain stages of the season can't do anything right. "But Willy can cope with the stick and you could see that with his reaction. It doesn't bother him and that just shows the character of the man. "The goalkeeping position is a lonely one and you need a strong character to cope with the pressure. "Willy's not a stranger to the club and he's been here long enough for the supporters to know him well, he's been in this situation before." Swansea have understudy Andy Oakes waiting in the wings and some fans would clearly like to see the former Derby and Walsall No 1 handed a chance. The giant goalkeeper was ironically called up by Martinez' predecessors Kenny Jackett and caretaker-boss Kevin Nugent earlier in the campaign after Gueret paid the price for a series of costly errors. But with just four games to go, Martinez says he has no plans to shake up his side at the business end of the season. "It would be foolish for me not to look at every part of the team," he said. "But it's important for me not to drop anyone but to use the squad. "Everyone works hard together for Swansea and that includes the goalkeepers. But I can say that Willy has done fantastically well for me and he doesn't bother me at all." Martinez' side head to Bournemouth needing a victory to remain in the hunt and make up ground on their promotion rivals. Swansea currently stand four points behind Oldham in the sought-after sixth spot and will be confident of doing their bit to reduce the deficit on the south coast to keep their play-off dream alive. "We still have a great chance and have to make sure we do everything so that on May 5 we are there," added Martinez, who has seen his side lose just once in eight games since taking charge. "But we still need to carry on the form we have shown of late and build on our momentum. "It would be nice to narrow the target down but they are fighting for their lives and that could be dangerous for us if we are not ready." Meanwhile, Swansea are still sweating on the fitness of Andy Robinson (hamstring) after the playmaker missed the 3-0 win over Port Vale. But Izzy Iriekpen, another absentee, is expected to shake-off an ankle knock and is likely to replace Kevin Austin at the heart of the defence.

By Neil Perrett - Daily Echo 13-04-2007

Bond: Swans will be a top test BOSS Kevin Bond believes Swansea City could prove to be Cherries' most formidable home opponents of his six-month reign. Bond, previewing Saturday's clash, said: "Potentially, I think it will be the hardest game we've had at Dean Court since I've been here." Seventh-placed Swans are four points adrift of the top six and new boss Roberto Martinez thinks they need to win three of their last four games to make the play-offs. But with six victories on home soil since the turn of the year, Cherries have proved a tough nut to crack in front of their own supporters. And with Bond's charges still in need of points to guarantee their League One safety, the Dean Court faithful could be treated to another cracker. Bond said: "Swansea have had some fantastic results recently and I think their squad is definitely as good as any other in this league. They've got some terrific players. "I'm sure the people at Swansea will think they ought to be doing at least as well as they are and I think they're entitled to do very well because they're a good outfit. "But we have also been performing well of late and our displays at home have been particularly pleasing so we could be in for an exciting game." Although Cherries crashed to a fifth straight defeat under Bond when they went down 4-2 at Swansea in November, it was arguably their first decent performance for the new manager. And while Cherries' League One status seemed under threat as they languished one off the bottom at the end of December, Bond has played his part in reviving their fortunes. Bond added: "All sorts of changes were being made and it took a little while for everyone to come to grips with it all, including me. "It was difficult when I first came here but I do feel the players are grasping what we're trying to do and how we're trying to play and I have seen a difference. "The results would certainly suggest that and we've done well since the new year. The players have embraced what we've tried to do and that is all credit to them." Bond has a couple of intriguing selection dilemmas to solve, with Steve Fletcher's return and Josh Walker's departure leaving him with decisions to make in midfield and up front. Fletcher is available again after being officially "rested" for the trip to Carlisle where Brett Pitman and Sam Vokes both performed admirably after coming off the bench at half-time. And Walker's return to Mid-dlesbrough following the end of his loan spell leaves Danny Hollands, Luke Summerfield and Michael Standing vying for a midfield berth. Bond said: "I'm going to make as few a changes as I can. I like to keep a settled side if we're winning and doing okay, which we have recently. I don't want to change things if I don't have to." Meanwhile, Bond thinks he may have found the solution to denting Swansea's record as the best first-half side in League One: "We're going to play the second half first!" In 42 league games this season, Swansea have only been losing five at half-time, while winning 16 and drawing 21 at the interval. Bond added: "We need to be on our guard and be well prepared and ready for it, as we try to be every week. We will certainly be doing our level best to make sure we're not punished in the first half - or the second half for that matter!"

Heartfelt hopes as Swans star Austin returns 12-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail IF there was a contest for the nicest man in football then Swansea City's Kevin Austin would be among the contenders. Softly-spoken and always personable, the muscular defender's off-the-field manner is starkly at odds with his no-nonsense approach on it. Making friends comes easy to the 34-year-old Londoner, who has made Bristol his home after two pre-Swansea years with Rovers. But even Austin admits he was "overwhelmed" by the response from well-wishers after a February heart scare produced some shocking newspaper headlines. In fact, such is Austin's popularity that followers of Bristol City and Bristol Rovers - never the warmest of bedfellows on the banks of the Avon - called a truce when they heard about the defender's plight. "It was quite overwhelming at times," admitted Austin, speaking about his situation in such detail for the first time after ending his six-week absence in the 3-0 defeat of Port Vale on Easter Monday. "I even had Bristol City and Bristol Rovers fans coming up to me and giving me their support! "I got loads of phone calls after what happened, friends and family all over the world got in touch." Austin's problems began when he was forced off in the first 20 minutes of the 1-0 defeat at Yeovil on February 24 complaining of breathlessness. Within a week or so it was being suggested that he had suffered a heart attack. His career appeared to be hanging in the balance. But tests later showed that Austin, in fact, had an irregular heartbeat. His worst fears had subsided. "I'm just glad it wasn't what they thought it was," said Austin. "It was one of those things that happened and the story just escalated, it was like Chinese whispers in the end. "I've got an irregular heartbeat and it looked like I've had a heart attack. "It went round like wildfire that I'd had one, but it wasn't the case. That's just the way my heart beats. "It was a little bit of a worry at the start, but then I had the tests and it showed that everything was fine. "Luckily my team-mates knew the situation because the club's physio was in touch with the hospital." Footballers being what they are, though, means Austin hasn't been spared the ribbing prominent in dressing rooms up and down the land. Having made his 400th league appearance against Port Vale, Austin already wears the "veteran" tag via spells at Leyton Orient, Lincoln, Bristol Rovers and Swansea well. But he revealed that the banter has increased since his irregular heartbeat was discovered. "Players have been saying 'watch what you're doing' or 'you shouldn't be doing that with your heart'," he smiled. "But you expect that. "I've put all that stuff to the back of my mind. I'm glad to put it to rest and get to back playing. "Now it's just a case of going out there, trying to perform and help the team get the three points on offer." As ever, for Austin and Swansea, there's plenty to play for at this stage of the season. Four points off the final play-off position with as many games remaining, Austin has the small matter of trying to win a new contract and extend his Swansea stay into a fourth season. It is familiar territory for the once-capped Trinidad and Tobago defender, who seemed to be on his way out of the Liberty last season before activating a clause in his contract by playing enough games to win a new deal. "It's the same," said Austin, when asked about his contract situation. "I do what I do every year. I just wait and see and take it from there, there's nothing more you can do. It doesn't really bother me. "Obviously, Swansea's a great club and I'll do all I can get to get a new deal. "If they offer me a contract, then I'd like to stay. But no talks have begun, so I'll just have to wait and see what happens." In the shorter term, Austin - who has now made more than 100 Swansea appearances - must wait to see if he has done enough to retain his place for the crunch trip to Bournemouth on Saturday. Izzy Iriekpen's ankle injury ruled him out of the Port Vale win and the Swans will check on the defender's fitness today. "I'll just see what the manager does, the main thing is I'm fit and able to try and knock on the door for a first-team place," said Austin. "The aim is to be in the first team, but I'll take it one step at a time. The boys have been playing well so I can't knock it if I don't play. "I came off on Monday at the end because I had a little bit of cramp. But everything's all right. It just goes to show that when you're out of it takes that little while to get back into the swing of things "The good thing was that the lads did so well it made my job slightly easier. But it was nice to be back." Football fans all over the country will echo that sentiment.

IT'S A FOUR WARNING 11-04-2007

Evening Post Leon Britton believes Swansea City will reach the play-offs if they can carry their Easter form through to the end of the campaign. Roberto Martinez's men earned an impressive point at Bristol City before thumping Port Vale over the holiday weekend. And though the gap to League One's top six is four points with just four games to play, Britton is confident Swansea can send their season into overtime. "Some of the other results didn't really go for us, but the Easter weekend has lifted everyone," the midfielder said. "We had a disappointing result when we didn't play well at Millwall last week, but we got a point from a tough game at Bristol City and might have got all three and then we had a good win against Port Vale. "It's given everyone a boost just at the right time. "Our target is to get another three wins from the last four games. We've got two at home and two away, so it's not going to be easy. But if we keep playing like we did over Easter I don't see why we can't manage it. "We can't worry about what anyone else is doing. We just have to focus on going to Bournemouth this Saturday and trying to produce another performance. "If we do that, we'll get the result we want." Britton, favourite to be named Swansea's player of the season, produced another fine individual display as lacklustre Vale were ripped apart on Monday. With boss Roberto Martinez keen not to run his key men into the ground, the 24-year-old was substituted on the hour. But Britton had already done enough to earn a standing ovation from the Liberty Stadium crowd. His last act was a run from his own half which ended with a perfectly-timed through ball for Darryl Duffy to wrap up victory. "The manager had asked me just before I came off to give him a few more minutes," Britton explained. "I knew I was about to be substituted, so I gave it one last go and fortunately it came off for us. "It's been hard for Darryl. He's been coming on here and there since he joined us, but he started his first game against Vale and showed what a good finisher he is. "Hopefully he can go on and get a few more goals between now and the end of the season." Duffy's first Swansea goals followed Lee Trundle's first at the Liberty in just over five months. Britton added: "Vale didn't have a lot to play for, and once Trunds scored that showed. "They didn't really look up for it and we took advantage of that." Saturday's trip to Bournemouth is pay on the day for travelling fans, but official travel club bookings should be made as soon as possible.

Now deadly Darryl wants play-offs 11-04-2007

Phil Blanche, Western Mail LOAN signing Darryl Duffy plans to hold on to a Swansea City starting spot - and fire Roberto Martinez' men into the League One play-offs. Duffy became a holiday hero on Easter Monday when making his first Swansea start, scoring twice in the 3-0 defeat of Port Vale at the Liberty Stadium. Victory kept Swansea within touching distance of the play-off positions - four points behind sixth-placed Oldham - and boosted confidence before Saturday's crunch visit to Bournemouth. And Swansea will head to the south coast buoyed by the fact that, for the first time since Leon Knight's controversial departure, they appear to have a natural marksman to take the scoring burden off Lee Trundle. "I need to keep myself in the team - and the only way I will do that is by scoring goals," said Duffy, who has 37 goals from 75 starts spread around Falkirk, Hull, Hartlepool and Swansea. "But I don't feel the pressure to score. That's part and parcel of the position. I'm paid to score goals and that's what I'll be judged on at the end of the day. "I judge myself on goals and I'm proud of my goal record. I strive to keep it that way." Glasgow-born Duffy, 23 next week, admits he took time to settle after making the move from Hull to Swansea on loan until the end of the season. There were cameo substitute appearances against Northampton, Millwall and Bristol City, and Swansea boss Martinez clearly felt the Scot was not ready to start the action. But Duffy got his chance at Pawel Abbott's expense against Port Vale and two composed, right-foot finishes showed the instinct of a natural predator. "I want to start every game," he said. "I came here to start games and score and it's taken a couple of weeks to settle in. "Maybe that's why the manager's waited, but the team were playing well when I came here and had two great results. "You've just got to be patient and wait for your chance. When you get it, you've got to grab it. "But it's hard to settle in until you get to know the boys, the staff, the area and the style of football that the team plays. "They've got to get used to you as well so it definitely takes time, but everybody's been absolutely brilliant. "I felt at home from the first week and I'm delighted I've done well when I got my chance." Duffy felt he should have opened his Swansea account against Northampton and Bristol City. But there was no disguising the quality of his finishing against Port Vale, an angled 18-yard drive off the inside of a post and a neat rounding of the goalkeeper before tapping in. "I was absolutely delighted with the two goals, but I'm my own worst critic and I should definitely have had three," said Duffy, referring to a golden late opportunity which went begging. "So I'm quite disappointed with that, to be honest, because I do analyse those things. "I need to be doing well and if I get the chance again next week then I've got to produce the same type of performance and score goals. "It was a good boost to get the nod before the game, but the important thing was to get three points." With Blackpool and Yeovil managing Easter Monday wins, Oldham are now the nearest team in the play-off positions to Swansea after their 1-1 draw at Bradford. Martinez reckons three wins from the last four games will be enough for Swansea to sneak into the coveted sixth spot, but Duffy is looking no further than the next one at the Fitness First Stadium. "It's been a big couple of weeks since I've been here," he said. "Every game seems bigger than the previous one and we're fighting away to get in the play-offs. "The manager has told us that if we don't do it then that's the last nine months of hard work out of the window. "It's another cup final at Bournemouth, and it doesn't matter whether you play top or bottom of the league. "As long as the team is winning and we get in the play-offs that's the main thing. If I can chip in with a few goals then great."