SWANSEA City failed in an audacious bid to sign £5 million Manchester City striker Felipe Caicedo ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline.

The Evening Post understands that megamoney City had agreed to loan their Ecuador international frontman to Swansea for a season with a view to a permanent deal.

Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers even got as far as holding talks with Caicedo, who would have been a remarkable addition to the club's attacking arsenal.

But Caicedo, who has 27 caps, was also attracting interest from around Europe after a proposed move to West Ham fell through last month.

And Swansea's hopes of pulling off what would have been a spectacular transfer coup were dashed when Caicedo signed a season-long loan deal with Spanish top-flight side Levante.

The fact that Swansea even got close to landing the 21-year-old is further evidence of Rodgers's impressive contacts.

The former Chelsea reserve-team manager is well connected at Eastlands having come close to joining Roberto Mancini's backroom staff earlier this summer.

And that link almost saw Swansea recruiting a player who City paid £5.2 million rising to £7 million for back in 2008.

Signed from Swiss side FC Basel by Sven-Goran Eriksson, Caicedo has made only a limited impact in Manchester, scoring four goals in 27 appearances.

A powerfully built forward with pace, he spent the first part of last season on loan with Sporting Lisbon before a successful loan stint playing in La Liga for Malaga.

Having helped keep them up, Caicedo is back in Spain with newly promoted Levante.

After his West Ham move fell through at the last minute, the 6ft 1in star also attracted attention from Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

Rodgers had been optimistic of doing a deal for Caicedo after Swansea were priced out of moves for Danny Graham and Tamas Priskin.

Another target, Leroy Lita, was told he could not leave by current club Middlesbrough despite being on the fringe of the first team at the Riverside.

Rodgers must now restart his search for attacking reinforcements when the emergency loan window opens on September 7.

He has not given up hope of signing West Ham's Frank Nouble, but he has made it clear that he also wants a more experienced player.

Meanwhile, Francisco Sandaza, the Dundee United striker who had been linked with Swansea, yesterday signed a one-year deal with Brighton.

The Welsh football association (FAW) has managed to keep Cardiff City and Swansea City under its jurisdiction despite a strong push by the English Football Association to claim the two clubs, reports the Western Mail. The English FA wants to absorb the two clubs to resolve disciplinary matters and for other football governance issues. However, FAW felt that this was a bit of muscle flexing by the English FA and use the UEFA rules to fight for their stance.

The details of the dialogue so far were revealed during a FAW council meeting in Cardiff last week. As an unnamed FAW member put it, “We’re led to believe this was an example of England trying to flex their muscles, but not getting their way. UEFA rules quite firmly dictate that clubs come under the jurisdiction of the Association where they are domiciled. In the case of Cardiff and Swansea, that is Wales. As such, England were told in no uncertain terms the two clubs must remain under our umbrella ... at least for the time being. We can’t have anybody trying to dictate to us. As such, the FAW hierarchy who stood up to them received a round of applause from every single one of us, and rightly so.”

The issue has come up because many clubs in the English system feel that Cardiff and Swansea get an easy ride with the Welsh FA especially in regard to matters of player discipline. Interestingly, the Bluebirds and Swans feel that they get unduly harsh treatment from the agency. So, in a sense there is interest from multiple parties for a change in the current arrangement. FAW and English FA have agreed to have a “collaborative dialogue” over the next twelve months to work out the matter of jurisdiction.

Also, if either of the teams is promoted they will have to go with the English FA. The Premier League is introducing new rules stipulating that teams can only play in the competition if they are affiliated to the English FA. As the FAW member said, “Under those circumstances, and Cardiff are pushing hard for promotion this year, it would be hard for us to stand in their way.”

SWANSEA City have taken 6ft 6in former Hibernian keeper Yves Makabu- Makalambay on a week's trial.

The 24-year-old Congo international is a free agent and would therefore be able to sign even though the summer transfer window closed last night.

A former Chelsea youth player, Makalambay worked with Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers at Stamford Bridge.

He once made the bench at the Blues but left for Hibs three years ago.

He has since made 64 appearances for the Edinburgh club, but lost his place at Easter Road at the start of last season after the signing of former Millwall keeper Graham Stack.

And when Hibs recruited another stopper, Graeme Smith, in last winter's transfer window, the writing was on the wall for Makalambay.

Released at the end of last season, he made his international debut over the summer but now finds himself without a club.

FORMER Reading youth captain Chris Davies admitted he could not turn down the chance to be reunited with Brendan Rodgers after becoming Swansea City's match analyst.

Davies, a one-time Wales Under-19 international, switched to sports science after realising he would not make the grade as a Football League player.

He has spent time working under Bobby Gould with New Zealand club Hawkes Bay United, and was set to join another Championship club this summer until Rodgers took over at the Liberty.

"As soon as Brendan got the Swansea job I was straight on the phone to him," Davies revealed.

"He taught me my trade, not just as a player but also as a person.

"He taught all the young players life lessons as well.

"By that I mean how to conduct yourself in a professional and responsible manner off the pitch."

Davies says Rodgers is a joy to work for because he understands the benefits of sports science and match analysis.

"Believe me, there are still some real dinosaurs out there who would be the ultimate challenge to work for."

Davies, 25, takes over from Nelson Jardim, who followed Paulo Sousa to Leicester.

SWANSEA City will look to the emergency loan window for reinforcements after a frustrating deadline day brought no new signings.

Swansea's most significant piece of business as the summer transfer window closed was to fend off a bid thought to be worth around £2 million from Leicester for defender Ashley Williams.

Brendan Rodgers's attempt to add another centre-back came to nothing after Motherwell turned down an offer in the region of £250,000 for Mark Reynolds.

And the Swansea boss also missed out on two Premier League centre-forwards, one of whom was long-time target Frank Nouble of West Ham United.

It is thought Rodgers could yet go back in for both strike targets when the window for emergency loan deals opens in a week's time as neither moved anywhere else yesterday.

And the same could be the case with Arsenal midfielder Henri Lansbury, who Swansea hoped to unveil last week until an injury crisis at the Emirates delayed a proposed loan switch to the Liberty.

Rodgers also hopes to conclude a deal for Dutch midfielder Kemy Agustien very soon after his successful pre-season trial. The Northern Irishman was left frustrated by Swansea's lack of joy yesterday — although he was delighted to see Williams stick around.

Rodgers's predecessor, Paulo Sousa, attempted to prise the Wales man away from the Liberty but Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins insisted Williams was not for sale.

And Rodgers said: "I don't think there's any need for Ashley to leave Swansea.

"It's similar to the Darren Pratley situation in that he doesn't need to leave unless he is going to go to a Premier League club.

"He is a talented player and he is a big part of my plans, and I'm happy that the club have knocked back the bid."

The only other significant interest for one of Swansea's players came from Brighton for striker Shefki Kuqi, but the League One club did not make a concrete bid.

As a result Kuqi remains one of only two fit frontmen on Swansea's books alongside Stephen Dobbie.

And that will be a disappointment for Rodgers given that he highlighted the need for attacking reinforcements as soon as he took over the reins in pre-season.

JAMES Collins admits he is relishing the prospect of lining up alongside Ashley Williams for Wales in Montenegro on Friday.

The Aston Villa defender is included in John Toshack's squad for the Euro 2012 qualification opener after recovering from calf trouble.

With West Ham's Danny Gabbidon again missing because of long-standing groin problems, Collins could feature in a central defensive trio with Williams and Craig Morgan of Preston.

And he is looking forward to the possibility of renewing his relationship with the Swansea City man, who was the subject of a failed deadline-day bid from Leicester.

"Ever since Ash came in (to the Wales side) he has been spot on, every game he's been superb," said the ex-Cardiff City defender.

"Ashley's a great player. I don't think he's ever let anyone down when he's played for Wales. He's been good every game and I certainly enjoy playing alongside him.

"I've known Craig a long time — I was in the under-21s with Craig and he's a great player.

"He's got a move up to Preston now and I think he's doing really well up there. Those players have done really well and hopefully they can continue."

Collins and Gabbidon have been regularly missing for Wales over recent seasons.

Gabbidon has not played international football since last November's friendly win over Scotland, while Collins has missed the last two internationals, against Croatia and Luxembourg.

Williams, in particular, has impressed in their absence, and Toshack this week warned the Premier League pair that they are no longer automatic first-choice selections.

"I'd have no qualms sticking with Craig Morgan and Ashley Williams," he said.

"James and Danny are proven Premier League players and clearly the squad is a lot stronger if they are with us and are 100 per cent fit.

"They've had a lot of problems but they are two very talented players.

"But, as we have not had either on a regular basis, we have had to live without them and Ashley and Craig have both really shone over the last 12 to 18 months."

Collins had been struggling with injury since returning to Villa for pre-season.

But he made his comeback in his club's Europa League defeat by Rapid Vienna last Thursday and completed another 90 minutes in Sunday's Premier League victory over Everton.

"I've played two games now and I'm raring to go," said the 27-year-old.

"Every game is a must-win — you want to be winning football games. We went to Montenegro a year ago and they gave us a hell of a game over there, so we've got to be sharp and take the confidence from the last game when we beat Luxembourg.

"Nearly all the lads have got around 20 caps now, they're all playing first-team football, so this is a big qualifying campaign for us."

ASHLEY WILLIAMS flies out to Montenegro with Wales today still a Swansea City player after dramatic last minute moves for the defender were rebuffed.

Highly-rated Williams was the subject of a £2m bid from Leicester just hours before the transfer window closed – before a sensational 11th hour approach from Scottish giants Celtic.

But Swans chairman Huw Jenkins blocked the two attempts to lure the talented defender away from the Liberty Stadium with a firm hands off message, insisting: “The player is not for sale.”

Williams was at Wales’ Vale of Glamorgan training base preparing for Friday’s crunch Euro 2012 qualifying match in Podgorica with the rest of John Toshack’s squad while the battle for his services went on behind the scenes.

Toshack will want Williams, a key man in Montenegro, fully focussed on the Euro opener and will be glad the transfer business is out of the way.

Toshack will weigh up whether to pick Williams at the back next to James Collins at the Gradski Stadium, with centre back Craig Morgan a doubt after picking up an ankle injury and Danny Gabbidon also out.

Toshack had previously pencilled in Williams for a holding midfield role, but his hand may be forced because of injuries to others.

Swansea stood firm yesterday in the face of frantic efforts to prise away one of their star players by first former Swans boss Paulo Sousa, then Celtic manager Neil Lennon.

Premier League pair West Brom and Wigan had also been linked with a move for the 26-year-old but it was Sousa who first tabled a concrete offer for Williams, understood to be in the region of £2m.

That was quickly rejected by the Swans, with Jenkins releasing a statement declaring his intention to keep hold of the 21-cap international.

But the Western Mail understands Jenkins then had to fend off an official enquiry from SPL outfit Celtic, who had identified Williams as the ideal candidate to solve their defensive problems.

Celtic had already had an offer to take Newcastle United’s Steven Taylor on loan turned down earlier in the day and were ready to turn to Williams – only to balk at Swansea’s valuation of the defender.

It is thought Swansea would want as much as £4m for a player who still has three years remaining on his Liberty contract and is seen by boss Brendan Rodgers as a key part of his plans. Williams joined from Stockport County in 2008 for a then-club record £400,000 and the Swans paid a further £100,000 to cancel a sell-on clause in the deal.

Leicester’s offer for Williams was believed to include an option of a players plus cash deal, but that was of no interest to the Swans despite Rodgers failing to add to his squad on deadline day. Rodgers will now wait for the loan window before continuing his attempts to land a striker but a move for Motherwell defender Mark Reynolds is dead in the water.

Motherwell boss Craig Brown said: “There was a formal offer to the club from Swansea. But it was a low offer and not commensurate with Mark’s ability.

“He would agree that it was a poor-ish offer and is reinforced by the fact that I gather the personal terms offered to him were not too acceptable either.”

Skysports.com understands Swansea have rejected a bid from Championship rivals Leicester for Ashley Williams.

Foxes boss Paulo Sousa is keen to be reunited with the Wales international having worked with the central defender during his time in charge of Swansea.

Williams is regarded as one of the best young defenders outside the Premier League and has been linked with a host of clubs.

Sousa is looking to bolster his defence before the transfer window slams shut and he is believed to have tabled an offer for Williams.

However, Swansea have rejected Leicester'sovertures as they look to keep Williams at the Liberty Stadium.

SWANSEA City are poised to make a shock £250,000 move for highly rated Motherwell defender Mark Reynolds before today's transfer deadline.

Brendan Rodgers has decided late in the summer window that he needs cover at the back — and 23-year-old Reynolds looks like being his man.

But whether the Swansea manager will have any success in his bid to sign two forwards was in some doubt last night.

Rodgers has targeted West Ham youngster Frank Nouble and another more established Premier League frontman.

One or both deals could yet come off today, but it could be that Swansea's search for strikers restarts when the emergency loan window opens in a week's time.

It may also be the case that their bid to sign Arsenal midfielder Henri Lansbury is postponed until the emergency market opens.

Swansea are still waiting for the green light from the Gunners to finalise a loan switch amid claims in Yorkshire that Leeds remain in the hunt for Lansbury's signature.

The deal that looks most likely to happen would see Reynolds arriving to provide competition in central defence and at right-back.

The former Scotland Under-21 international — who is tipped to win a first senior cap soon — has been expected to leave Motherwell all summer.

Reynolds has only this season to run on his current deal, and boss Craig Brown recently admitted that the club's recruitment policy depended entirely on his sale.

Scottish giants Rangers offered around £800,000 for Reynolds two years ago, but the bid was turned down because Motherwell were then looking for more than £1 million.

With his contract set to expire, Reynolds's value has plummeted and Swansea believe he will mature into a high-class performer given time at the Liberty. He already has more than 170 senior games under his belt having broken into the Motherwell side as a teenager, and he missed only one match last season.

Newcastle United were reportedly showing an interest in Reynolds earlier this year, while Fulham, Blackburn, Nottingham Forest and PSV Eindhoven have all been touted as potential suitors in the past.

Reynolds, who has captained Motherwell in the past, would provide a welcome option at the back for Rodgers, who does not have a host of defensive alternatives.

With Angel Rangel injured, Swansea's resources already look a little thin, Albert Serran having been pressed into emergency right-back duty before Rodgers gave former Wrexham man Neil Taylor his first Championship start in last weekend's win over Burnley.

Reynolds, who has featured in Europe for Motherwell already this season, played what looks like being his last game for the Scottish Premier League club against Celtic on Sunday.

At the start of pre-season, former Scotland boss Brown admitted the time had come for Reynolds to leave Fir Park.

"He deserves the best move he can get and the club is supportive of his move because it would benefit the club financially, and also because it would benefit Mark," Brown said.

"He has been such a terrific servant here."

Ideally Reynolds will arrive at the Liberty today alongside the two forwards and Lansbury, although the chances of every deal coming off before the 6pm deadline look remote.

As for pre-season trialist Kemy Agustien, Swansea expect to secure his signature at some point early next month

GARRY Monk reckons Swansea City have ticked most boxes in their opening spell under Brendan Rodgers.

But the club captain is convinced Swansea will improve when phase two of the Rodgers reign begins after the international break.

Swansea have won two and lost two of their first four Championship fixtures, while triumphs over Barnet and Tranmere have seen them through to the Carling Cup third round.

Rodgers's men sit just above halfway in the early-season league table, but the feeling is that they will spend this campaign looking up rather than down.

"I still think we will be at our best after this break," Monk says.

"Our football fitness is still building up. I'm not just talking about running, I mean making angles and keeping the ball.

"It's hard work and we are not at our peak yet, but I think that will come over the next couple of weeks.

"We might need a bit of a second wind at Leeds after a fortnight without a game, but I think through September we will really hit our stride."

It is not as if Swansea have been off the pace so far.

All four of their league outings have offered something to be pleased about, with Preston overwhelmed and Burnley deservedly beaten at the Liberty.

How Swansea ended up losing having dominated at Norwich City remains a mystery, while the opening-day defeat at Hull had its bright spots.

"We should have more than six points," Monk adds.

"Our performances have been there in every game really.

"There was maybe only the second half at Hull, after we went 2-0 down, when we were not quite where we should have been.

"But we are learning all the time and we look a real threat going forward, and I'm sure there's more to come from this team.

"If we can keep playing the way we did in the first half against Burnley, I don't think there will be many teams who can cope with us."

Swansea tore into the much-fancied Clarets, Nathan Dyer and Scott Sinclair wreaking havoc down the flanks and David Cotterill offering another threat behind Stephen Dobbie.

Had their finishing been sharper, Swansea could have buried Burnley inside half an hour.

And Monk believes Rodgers's players should not get too carried away despite their new-found attacking verve.

"The way we keep the ball, I think we can do what we did in the first half against Burnley for 90 minutes," the centre-back says.

"But because we are so exciting going forward now, we seem to think that we have got to score every time we get the ball.

"We can control things, playing 20 or 30 passes with ease, and then we can pick our moment to attack."

Swansea's cause should soon be aided by at least a couple of new signings, with Rodgers working hard to add goals to his squad before the transfer window closes this afternoon.

"I think we have got enough wingers, but apart from that we would be happy to see the gaffer strengthen every position," Monk says.

"What's important is that we get the right kind of personalities, not just good players.

"Scott Sinclair has slotted in straightaway and we want more like him."

BRENDAN RODGERS hailed his wing wonders as Swansea City made it two from two at the Liberty.

Nathan Dyer and Scott Sinclair turned on the style to terrorise Burnley yesterday, the latter grabbing his debut Championship goal for the Swans as the Clarets came unstuck.

And boss Rodgers reckons the two fliers can wreak havoc in the division as the Swans continue to impress under the new man.

Rodgers said: “They are two players that can really cause problems in this league and we give them the freedom to show why they earn their money.

“That’s the beauty of system we play, they are really difficult players to contend with.

“But the work behind them is just as important because we are passing the ball with penetration and in the first half we were great value. You sensed the supporters were enjoying it. The important thing for us was the creativity because I want us to be offensive.”

Rodgers insisted his team passed a big test by seeing off a side tipped to bounce back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

But he admitted he was left disappointed by referee Steve Tanner’s decision to book Darren Pratley for diving in the box – the midfielder going on to see red. “I thought it was a penalty,” said Rodgers.

BRENDAN Rodgers is hoping to make a dramatic swoop for two Premier League strikers before tomorrow's transfer deadline.

The Swansea City manager remains optimistic that he can tie up a loan deal for West Ham's teenage frontman Frank Nouble.

And he is also looking to secure the services of a more established centre-forward who has not previously been linked with the Liberty.

The Evening Post understands Tamas Priskin, of Ipswich, and Watford's Danny Graham — who has picked up an injury anyway — will not be moving to Swansea because the asking prices are too high.

And Middlesbrough's Leroy Lita has also been ruled out of contention because Gordon Strachan is unwilling to let the former Reading player leave.

Rodgers is desperate to add more attacking power to a Swansea squad who scored only 40 goals in the Championship last season.

And if he lands his targets, it could be that Shefki Kuqi heads in the opposite direction amid interest from a clutch of League One clubs.

It is understood a proposed move to Huddersfield Town fell through earlier this month, and the Terriers have now signed Crystal Palace targetman Alan Lee instead.

But there are still a number of third-tier sides who are interested in Kuqi's signature and a move could go through before the summer transfer window closes at 5pm tomorrow.

By then Swansea may also have a secured the signing of Arsenal's Henri Lansbury, although there will be no panic if the midfielder does not arrive in time because he could join when the emergency loan window opens next week.

And Swansea are in no desperate rush to finalise a deal with pre-season trialist Kemy Agustien because they should be able to recruit him after the window closes as a free agent.

Swansea had thought originally they needed to complete Agustien's signature during the window, but it now appears that is not the case.

Apart from a possible move for Kuqi, no further exits look likely at this stage after Shaun MacDonald agreed a third loan spell with Yeovil over the weekend.

The midfielder penned a new two-year Swansea deal over the summer, but has rejoined the Glovers until January 3.

Cedric van der Gun, who admitted his future in Wales was uncertain during preseason, was absent from the weekend win over Burnley.

But the Dutch winger was missing as a result of a hamstring problem picked up at Tranmere last week and not because of a possible transfer.

THE SIGNS are that Swansea City are getting it right under Brendan Rodgers.

And don’t take my word for it. Just ask Marcel Desailly.

“This is a team that can get better and better,” was the verdict of the World Cup winner, an unlikely but nonetheless impressed spectator at the Liberty on Saturday as he undertakes his coaching badges in Wales.

“They secured the game well in the second half, but all the way through the game you could see the movement is there and they are tactically very well set up.

“They have a quality coach with a good background and I think this team could push on. I know the manager has not been in charge long, but I have been talking to him about how he sets up his players and you can definitely see he knows what he’s talking about – and it’s clearly working.”

That it is. While the words from the former France, Marseille, AC Milan and Chelsea great are high praise indeed, no-one need tell Rodgers and his players that they are taking forward steps right now.

They would have come off the Liberty pitch not just with the three points courtesy of Scott Sinclair’s eighth-minute strike, but with a sense that things are really beginning to click.

Because, while there is plenty for Rodgers to work on and improve over the coming weeks and months, the side have already made leaps and bounds in such a short space of time.

It is not the first time Swansea have dominated and controlled the play on their own patch. But the difference from last year is this is dynamic domination, possession with penetration as Rodgers calls it.

In layman’s terms, Swansea battered Burnley.

At least certainly in the first half, a late rally from one of the pre-season favourites for promotion even gave Swansea the chance to show they’ve lost none of last year’s defensive solidness.

This was not passing for the sake of passing as Swansea were increasingly guilty of last term, but passing with a purpose as their wide boys enjoyed themselves.

“They are difficult players to contend with,” said Rodgers of in-form and flying wingers Nathan Dyer and Sinclair.

“They are two players that can really cause problems in this league and we give them the freedom to show why they earn their money.

“That’s the beauty of the system we play – but it starts from behind with how we pass the ball.”

Helped no end by the deep-laying Mark Gower switching play and stretching Burnley, Darren Pratley doing what he does best in the middle of the park and David Cotterill making the most of his ability to spot the gap at the tip of the central three.

Pratley did not last the 90 here, though. If there was an argument whether the 48th-minute challenge from Dean Marney was in the box, there was no argument that it was a foul.

Yet out came Steve Tanner’s yellow, an error that was brought into focus when Pratley was rightly booked for a challenge on Mears 10 minutes later.

Pratley will now miss the trip to Leeds after the international break, but the short-term damage was limited when Mears was again done by Dyer and challenged too late as he had done on Sinclair earlier in the afternoon.

It gave the game a skewed finish, where Burnley pressed without overly troubling Swansea. But the hosts had already earned a lead to protect with a fabulous first half.

“I thought we were outstanding,” admitted Rodgers. “It was free-flowing until the game became a little bit broken because of the sendings-off. Of course, when you only get the one goal it can make it a wee bit hairy at the end – but we knew that persistence and resilience would be important against a team like Burnley, who will be up there at the end of the season.

“We should have had more, and they know that, that when the opportunities come we need to be ruthless. But the most important thing is our creativity and some of our play was very, very good.”

Indeed. even conservative counts show that Swansea got in behind Burnley 10 times in the first 45 minutes, the all-important one coming eight minutes in as Sinclair finished a lovely move involving six different players.

With Dyer skinning Danny Fox each time, Stephen Dobbie perhaps could have taken more advantage, while Pratley was denied by the crossbar and Sinclair by Burnley’s great Dane of a goalkeeper Brian Jensen.

A tale of chances not taken seems a familiar one in this corner of South Wales, but the creation of the chances in the first place is the important step forward from last term’s ultimate disappointment.

So if we are to believe the signs – and Desailly – why the big change? Is it all down to the manager.

“No, it’s not me,” he said. “It’s the players. I like to be offensive and creative and if anything that gives them the confidence to enjoy that, but within discipline. I wasn’t here last year so I can’t comment, but what I can say is that these players are enjoying working hard and the consequence of that is great performances.

“It was a great measure of that against a team that is going to be right up there at the end of the season. We have started well with four wins out of six in all competitions and I see growth every day in this group.

“But this was a real test for us – and we passed it.”

Of course, Rodgers knows his work is only just beginning as he talks of building a squad and excitement over success for the next two to three seasons.

Part of that squad building is expected to take place this week as the transfer window gets set to close, Rodgers claiming he is happy to do business.

And, after one success in Sinclair, Rodgers dropped a hint at just who he fancies.

“There was quite a nice moment where Scott went up against Jack Cork – two players who played under me at Chelsea,” he said. “To be fair to them, when I was reserve manager at Chelsea, a lot of players said they would play for me again in the future and that’s happened with Scott, with Jack at Watford, Ryan Bertrand at Reading.

“Now I’m just waiting on Didier Drogba.”

Perhaps Desailly can give him a nudge.

NEIL TAYLOR hopes he has shown Brendan Rodgers he can cope with the leap from Conference to Championship football as he aims for a first league start this afternoon.

Taylor was playing non-league just four months ago before sealing a summer switch from Wrexham, and is set to be thrown into action against Burnley today – a side that were playing Premier League football last term.

It is a leap few are able to make comfortably, but Taylor looks to have done enough in recent weeks to convince boss Rodgers he is worth a starting spot as he looks to cover the injury to full-back Angel Rangel.

Impressing as a second-half sub against Norwich last week, the 21-year-old slotted in simply enough against Tranmere for the midweek Carling Cup victory at Prenton Park and looks ready to occupy the left-back role with Alan Tate moving to the right flank.

And, although St Asaph-born Taylor admits a first start in the second tier would represent a big step up from Conference football, the Wales U21 international, capped once at senior level, says it is one he is capable of.

“Coming from Conference football was always going to mean a bit of a jump and there is obviously a big difference in the levels,” said Taylor, a Bosman signing for whom Swansea paid Wrexham a five-figure sum in compensation.

“But that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily harder because of that. I’ve been used to balls being lumped in the box, as we saw at Tranmere, and that is a tough school to grow up in for a young player coming through.

“I had to learn to cope with that and I’ve learned from it at a young age. Now I have to make the transition, but it’s something I’m confident I can do being at a young age and from my experience under Brian Flynn with Wales.

“Under Brian it is about playing football on the floor and that was one of the big reasons I wanted to come to Swansea because it’s quite similar and it’s a style I feel will bring out the best in me. Hopefully I will get the chance to show that.

“When I signed I was aiming to make the team because you have to aim high in your career.

“I know it will be tough because of the step and how well the team did last year, especially defensively, but all I can do is try and make the most of the chances when I get them.”

With Rangel expected out for at least another month, and Albert Serran not covering himself in glory as his replacement, Rodgers is expected to turn to Taylor whose pace and willingness to join in with attacks helps him slot in fairly easily to the Swans’ system.

And Taylor added: “It’s unfortunate to see Angel get injured but that’s football and that’s why you need strong squads. It means there could be an opening for me and hopefully I’ve put the thought in the manager’s head.”

STEPHEN DOBBIE says Swansea City will have to beat a side of Premiership quality if they are to go into the international break with a win.

This afternoon’s clash with Burnley at the Liberty Stadium is the Swans’ last game for two weeks due to international fixtures, with Ashley Williams and David Cotterill away with Wales in Montenegro.

After their unlucky defeat away at Norwich last weekend, Scottish striker Dobbie says a win before the enforced break is vital to get their league form back on track.

But Brian Laws’ Burnley will provide a stiff test at home for the Swans, having picked up two impressive wins over Nottingham Forest and Leicester City and a draw in their opening three fixtures.

They remain among the bookies’ favourites for automatic promotion from the Championship despite being relegated with just 30 points from the Premiership last season.

Dobbie said: “A good result against Burnley is very important, especially with international break coming up because we want to go into that off the back of a win.

“Burnley have had some really good results so far this season.

“They’ve got the Scotland striker Chris Iwelumo in, who has scored a lot of goals already. Chris Eagles is in there as well and he is a player who can cause teams a lot of problems.

“Burnley have got quite a few players who are Premiership class. It didn’t happen for the team in the Premier League, but they are still a very good side.”

Iwelumo had scored just once in 18 months for Wolverhampton Wanderers before his move to Burnley in the summer, but the 6ft 4in forward has found the net twice in his first three league games for the Clarets.

His goal against Paulo Sousa’s Leicester last weekend was the 100th of his career and helped Burnley to an impressive 3-0 win at Turf Moor.

Former Manchester United youngster Chris Eagles turned down a move to Rangers to sign a new deal with Burnley this week as he looks for an immediate return to the Premiership.

Burnley boss Laws said: “It’s great news for the fans and the football club because quite clearly he has the talent.

“I’m hoping that it will give everyone a lift. It shows there is good harmony here and good competition.”

Swansea have hit seven goals at the Liberty already, with Dobbie getting his first of the campaign in the emphatic 4-0 win over Preston North End.

Dobbie says the Swans’ home form will be key in their quest for a play-off spot, but insists he does not expect Burnley to take the cautious approach most other teams will when they travel to South Wales.

He added: “The home form was really good last year and we’ve got to continue that way.

“We’ve had a good start with the 4-0 win over Preston and a win in the Carling Cup, it’s just a matter of going out and playing our own way.

“Burnley will come to attack because they are playing very well at the moment.

“They’ve got good attacking options so they won’t be worried about having a go at us.

“We love to get forward in numbers, especially at home, so it should make for an exciting game.

“After the Norwich game the boys were very dejected because we played really well and didn’t get what we deserved. But, if we take the same mentality into Saturday’s game against Burnley, I’m sure we will get the right result.

“We played so well against Preston and took that to Norwich and it’s something we want to do for the rest of the campaign, play well at home use the momentum to go into the away games.

“We need to make the Liberty Stadium a fortress and give away nothing there.”

The 27-year-old has gone from the wilderness of last year, being loaned out to Blackpool, to becoming Swansea’s main striker for this campaign.

He proved his worth to the side in the midweek Carling Cup game against Tranmere Rovers when he helped to transform the Swans’ performance in the second half with an excellent display.

Boss Brendan Rodgers has made no secret of his desire to add one or more strikers to his squad before the transfer window shuts and Dobbie says he would welcome the competition up front.

“The gaffer has said he’s looking to strengthen up front with Gorka (Pintado) injured and Craig Beattie out,” said Dobbie, who this week signed a new two-year contract to keep him at the club for the next three seasons.

“There’s only me and Shefki (Kuqi) here at the moment who are fit.

“It’s the same at any big club, if the gaffer can bring quality players in he is going to do it and we all want to see that.

“We are waiting to see what he will do in the transfer market, but I am sure it will be a major boost for the team.”

Swansea’s first transfer coup of the summer, Scott Sinclair, has been in sparkling form for his new club since arriving for £500,000 from Chelsea.

It leaves the Swans with a plethora of attacking midfielders, perfect for Dobbie, Kuqi and any strikers who arrive at the club over the next five days before the transfer window shuts.

“Scott’s come in and been a major boost for the squad.” said Dobbie. “We’ve got Scott, Nathan Dyer, (Darren) Pratley, (David) Cotterill, there are so many creative players in the team as a striker it is everything you want.

“Last season the gaffer was more defensive and we only scored 40 goals, when the new manager came in it was something he wanted us to work on.

“I’m sure we’ll get back on track and scoring goals this year.”

As the end of the transfer window edges closer, Swansea will be desperate to keep hold of star players like Ashley Williams and Darren Pratley, who have both attracted interest from other clubs in the past.

Dobbie added: “They are massive players for us, so we are all hoping there won’t be any bids for them and we can hold on to them because we need them in the team this season.”

SWANSEA CITY have let Shaun MacDonald join Yeovil Town on loan – just as Tom Butler was ruled out for four months.

Wales U21 international MacDonald last night completed a third loan switch to the League One side having spent the majority of last season at Huish Park.

And, having failed to break into boss Brendan Rodgers’ squad so far this season, the 21-year-old midfielder will stay in Somerset until January in a bid to gain further first-team experience.

MacDonald’s exit allows Rodgers more room for manoeuvre as he looks to name his 25-man senior squad on Tuesday when the transfer window closes. New Football League rules only permit clubs the use of 25 players over the age of 21, with the squad lists submitted next week only able to be revised in January.

Swansea are currently under the limit, but with Rodgers looking for at least three new signings, including 23-year-old Dutch midfielder Kemy Agustien and a senior striker, MacDonald’s departure allows him space for new arrivals.

But Rodgers will not be able to call upon the services of wideman Butler during that period, the Irishman set for surgery on a thigh muscle problem that could keep him sidelined past Christmas.

Butler, who has not yet appeared under Rodgers after the injury curtailed his pre-season, joins striker Craig Beattie on the sidelines after the Scot damaged a calf muscle during the club’s pre-season tour of Holland.

Midfielder Ferrie Bodde is Rodgers’ other injury absentee, the one-time transfer target of Bolton and Wigan not expected back to match fitness until at least January as he recovers from a third major knee operation.

Bodde is currently still in his native Netherlands as he undergoes rehabilitation, but has been told by Rodgers he still sees him part of his plans with negotiations over a new deal believed to have begin.

Fellow former Dutch youth international Agustien is expected to agree a Liberty stay this week.

Burnley travel to the Liberty Stadium tomorrow to play Swansea City and it is a game where both managers are warning of a difficult game ahead for their respective teams.

Brendan Rodgers is the new man in charge at Swansea, having been appointed to replace Paulo Sousa who moved to Leicester, and he reckons Burnley are going to be one of the top teams this season in the Championship.

"We know it's going to be difficult but we want to win every game at home," Rodgers said as he looked forward to his second home league game in charge. "For teams coming to the Liberty we want to make it as difficult as possible, that proved to be the case in the first game [against Preston] and we want to continue to do that.

"There's no doubt that we're going to be playing against one of the teams right up there over the course of the season, but it will be about us to make it as difficult as we possibly can.

"I have great confidence that we can do that, and if we win on Saturday it will be a terrific start, four wins from six, which will give us confidence going into our next games."

Brian Laws knows that a good result at Swansea, added to the results so far, means a good start to the season and he said: "Any team that wants to be successful has to have a good start. The last thing you want is to go into the season chasing.

"Because we got relegated and because I was new into the club, it was important to start well this season and get a feel good factor going. We have done that, but we haven't achieved anything yet though, other than a solid start."

Laws continued: "Looking at the first block of games, people were saying it was as tough a start as we could have asked for, so it's a good measure of the players' attitude that we have started well and it would be nice to finish off for the international break with another good result behind us.

"It's positive and you can work on the strategy for the next month when we have seven games in 21 days that will test our squad to the maximum."

On Swansea he admitted: "I would say this is going to be our toughest game. As each game goes by, we all say the same things, but Swansea were always going to be a tough side to crack.

"Looking at last season, their home form was fantastic, very rarely do they concede lots of goals and the only achilles heel I could see was the fact they didn't score enough goals.

"This year, I don't think there will be any change in the way they play. The new manager has gone in and they have shown they will be tough.

"It will be a good game of football and we have to measure ourselves against another good side."

Yeovil Town Football Club are pleased to announce that Swansea midfielder Shaun MacDonald has returned to the club on a loan deal until January 3rd 2011.

Shaun, 21, has returned for a third spell with the Glovers after two previous loan spells. In January 2009, he scored twice in four games while last season he stayed for most of the season playing 31 times and scoring three.

The Welsh under-21 record breaking star has found it difficult to break into the Swansea side despite signing a new two year deal with the Swans in the summer. A change of manager from Paulo Sousa to Brendan Rodgers hasn't aided his elevation into Championship football either.

His international career has continued to blossom though and only last week, Shaun received another call-up into the Welsh under-21 squad for the UEFA Championship qualifiers against Hungary and Italy in early September.

Always a popular figure for his whole-hearted attitude, Shaun will be welcomed back and everyone at Huish Park wishes him well for this latest spell.

SWANSEA City fans should be in upbeat mood at the moment because there's nothing but positivity coming from the manager.

Don't get me wrong, last weekend's defeat at Norwich was a huge disappointment.

Swansea never deserved to lose, and the performance and tactical approach were very encouraging.

Brendan Rodgers is clearly not afraid to be adventurous, even away from home, and that's a philosophy I agree with.

Again he selected an attack-minded side at Carrow Road and Swansea deserved to win the match.

The game hinged on a late penalty, which Canaries goalkeeper John Ruddy saved, but the fact Swansea were in a position to win the spot-kick proves they were threatening and looking to take all three points right to the death.

That would not have been the case last season.

It was a good save by Ruddy, but there are huge question marks over whether the former Everton man should have been on the field. I don't like seeing people sent off, but according to the letter of the law he should have walked.

You can disregard the second goal because had Swansea not been pushing so far forward, it would never have been scored.

The circumstances of the defeat were disappointing — the result was hard to take because Swansea were the better team.

But at this stage of the season, performance counts for a lot. And Swansea are playing well.

If they continue to produce similar displays, they will win far more than they'll lose this season.

Rodgers is definitely on the right road to success, but it's important to remember that he is still very new to the job.

He has only been in place four weeks and will still be getting to know the players, their strengths and weaknesses and what they can offer him.

By now he should be developing a clearer idea of which players can take the club forward and which can't.

And with the transfer window shutting on Tuesday, decisions over which players he might like to move on and those he'd like to bring in need to be made.

There has been talk of a striker arriving, and with both Gorka Pintado and Craig Beattie injured that is clearly an area that needs reinforcing.

Henri Lansbury has also been linked with a move to the Liberty and he's a player I'd love to see arrive.

Like Scott Sinclair, Lansbury is young and hugely talented having been schooled at another top Premier League club in Arsenal.

However, I don't see central midfield as an area that urgently requires new personnel.

Darren Pratley, Joe Allen and Andrea Orlandi can all do a job in there, while Mark Gower has been a revelation so far this season.

I have always rated Gower — he is a good footballer with good feet, and if you can perform on the flank there's no reason why you can't do the same in the middle, as he is proving.

Of course, if people are to come in, others must be moved on.

With that in mind I was surprised Brendan opted to make so many changes for the League Cup wins against Barnet and Tranmere.

Those players will now be cup-tied, potentially making them less attractive to other clubs.

Several players in the squad would definitely benefit from a loan move and I hope they get that opportunity before the window closes.

Reserve football is all well and good, but it doesn't have the intensity of first-team action, which helps young players in particular develop.

DAVID Cotterill has refused to watch last weekend's penalty heartbreaker at Norwich — but won't shy away from spot-kick duty against Burnley tomorrow.

The Wales winger saw his 84th-minute penalty kept out by John Ruddy as Swansea City went down 2-0 at Carrow Road.

It proved a crucial moment in the match, with the game goalless when Ruddy tipped Cotterill's effort on to the post.

Norwich added to Cotterill's misery with two late goals, which sent Swansea on the long trip home wondering how they did not have so much as a point to show for their efforts.

But Cotterill is adamant he won't be handing over the responsibility if the chance arises to shoot from 12 yards when Burnley visit the Liberty.

"I was very disappointed because the time it came at meant we probably would have won if I'd scored," said Cotterill.

"I was going to go the other side but I changed my mind at the last moment, which you should never do. The keeper made a fine save and then they go and score two at our end.

"I've not seen the replay because I don't want to see it.

"It plays on your mind a lot, but you have to be strong and focused on making it right in the next game.

"Top players miss them but they respond in the right way. That's what I'll be looking to do when we get our next penalty.

"I was the penalty-taker at Sheffield United and I missed one in about 15 penalties, so my record is not bad.

"I won't be shying away from taking one tomorrow if we get a penalty — I'll be stepping forward to take it."

That setback aside, Cotterill has enjoyed a relatively successful start to the campaign.

His switch from the wing to a central role under Brendan Rodgers has already offered much promise, while he opened his club account for the season with a goal from the penalty spot in the win over Preston.

On the international stage, Cotterill notched up his first goal for Wales this month in the 5-1 hammering of Luxembourg in Llanelli.

And with wife Sasha recently giving birth to a son, Sydney, Cotterill is in high spirits.

He reckons Swansea have a lot of positives to take from their opening few games — despite losing two of their three Championship fixtures.

"Things have gone pretty well so far in my view," he said.

"My wife give birth to our second child just before the season kicked off, while we've played well despite not picking up results at Hull and Norwich.

"We've only got three out of nine points, but I don't think the results reflect the way we've played.

"We are not low on confidence but we know we have to start hitting the net now and taking our chances.

"I've taken on a different role in the team and I'm really enjoying it.

"A lot of players will tell you that when you're out wide it can get frustrating. But down the centre of the park you are more involved and I hope to get the wingers involved quicker too because we have pace to burn."

He added: "I'm very happy to be playing here, though, because we play great football and the lads are excellent as a group.

"The new manager has come in and given us fresh ideas and everyone is happy now.

"We are all really focused on tomorrow's game, and we are looking forward to testing ourselves against another ex-Premier League club.

"Hopefully the result will match our performance."

BRENDAN Rodgers has paid tribute to his "unique" Swansea City team ahead of tomorrow's Championship clash with promotion contenders Burnley.

And the Swansea manager has singled out his captain, Garry Monk, for special praise in the wake of the comeback win at Tranmere Rovers in midweek.

Rodgers believes his players began proving they can be a force this season by overhauling a 1-0 deficit to triumph 3-1 at Prenton Park.

And he insists the "personality" displayed on Tuesday will be key throughout the campaign.

"There was one moment at Tranmere that typified what this group is about," Rodgers said.

"It was the skipper, Garry Monk, who the club are very, very fortunate to have as captain because he is so honest.

"He came in at half-time on Tuesday and apologised for his mistake for the Tranmere goal, and in the modern game you don't get that.

"Players are not as honest as they were 15 or 20 years ago.

"It used to be the norm for players to come in and hold their hands up, but now you don't usually see that.

"But this group, for me, are unique.

"We have a bunch of really honest players, and none more so than the captain, who is a wonderful leader for this club.

"He could easily have tried to blame the grass or his studs, but he held his hands up straightaway and then responded brilliantly in the second half. It takes a man to do that."

Before Tranmere, Swansea had not won a game after going behind since February 2009.

But Rodgers reckons the win on the Wirral says much about their ability to chalk up more turnaround successes in the future.

"We saw the resilience of the group on Tuesday and that is very important," he added.

"It's not just Swansea. If you look at the statistics all across the leagues last season, more than 50 per cent of teams failed to win after going behind.

"But then you look at the successful clubs and see that they managed it.

"That shows that it is going to be crucial for us to keep on doing that. The players have shown they can do it, and repeating it will be key to our development and growth."

Rodgers believes the personality of players — both individually and collectively — comes out during "each 90 minutes" they play.

The Northern Irishman is still getting to know his squad having arrived in Wales only last month, but already he has seen enough to feel excited.

"In football, as in your social life, you need perseverance and determination if you are going to succeed," he continued.

"If we have those characteristics, which we have, and we also have honesty, we will grow over the next two or three season.

"There are no superstars at this club.

"Some of them could walk about like that because they are really good players, but what I have learned in my time as a coach and manager is that the best people usually make the best coaches and the best players."

Determination and perseverance may be required to get past a Burnley side who have begun the season in some style following a year-long stay in the Premier League.

Swansea could give a first league start to summer signing Neil Taylor at left-back, but further recruits look unlikely before the weekend despite Rodgers's best efforts.

The former Reading boss is still hoping to conclude deals for Henri Lansbury, Kemy Agustien and Frank Nouble, while Ipswich striker Tamas Priskin remains on his radar ahead of next week's transfer deadline.

"Burnley have kept a lot of their players from last season and added one or two good ones as well, so this will be a really good test of where we are," Rodgers said.

gareth.vincent@swwmedia.co.uk

ALAN Tate faces Burnley tomorrow admitting matchday provides a welcome release from the personal problems which have made this the toughest period in his life.

Tate's father Bill, who is perhaps the biggest of his many supporters, has not seen Swansea City in action this season because he is battling bowel cancer.

And the 27-year-old's grandmother, Nancy, was told last week that there is nothing more doctors can do to help her fight against stomach and lung cancer.

There was great happiness in the Tate clan over the summer when Alan's first child, Brodie, came into the world.

But for Tate, the joy of becoming a dad has now given way to worry and concern for the family back home in the North East.

"It's definitely been the hardest month of my life," the fans' favourite says.

"I'm sure there are people out there who are worse off than me, and you just have to get on with things and try to do your best when you are playing.

"But off the field, when I am away from football, it has been difficult.

"I found out last week that my nana has incurable lung and stomach cancer. I can't remember exactly when I heard because the last few days have all been a bit of a blur.

"At the beginning of the month my dad had his second operation on his bowel cancer, and my other grandmother is having problems with old age as well.

"What's going on is in my head all the time."

Just like Tate, the family enjoy spending time in South West Wales.

And over the last few years, they have regularly been spotted on away ends up and down the land following Swansea's progress.

"My dad travels all over the place, but he has not been to a game this season because of how he is feeling," Tate adds.

"He has just had another operation and it is his mum who is having to live day by day, so he is a bit up in the air.

"One of the things that makes me happy is that my nana has been down to Swansea to see me play.

"Hopefully she will get the chance to come again but, if not, at least she has seen me at the place where I'm probably the happiest I've ever been."

With the international break to come after Burnley, Tate is planning an imminent trip to County Durham.

He was last back on home turf after Swansea lost at Hull City on the opening day of the new season.

"My dad had the operation just before that and I went up to see him after the game," Tate explains.

"On the Sunday before I came back to Swansea, I took my nana to the hospital for some tests and didn't think anything of it.

"But they took her and my mam and dad into a room last week and told them the news.

"I'm going to try to get home as quickly as possible to see her.

"We are only a small family and I am close to her.

"My mam's only got one brother and my dad hasn't got any, so there are not that many of us."

Tate says he has tried not to burden Brendan Rodgers with his problems, informing him only about his father so he could head home after Hull.

"He was good as gold about that, but he has got enough things to worry about without me telling him everything else," Swansea's vice-captain adds.

"I am old enough and hopefully strong enough to look after myself."

Even so, Tate is happy to be around his team-mates and friends right now.

"It's good to have people with you because it's when you're left on your own that you start to get down," he goes on.

"Being with the baby as much as possible is good."

Tate has made a steady if unspectacular start to the season, beginning the campaign on the left of Rodgers's defence and then switching to the right halfway through last weekend's defeat at Norwich.

He may be right-back once again against the Clarets — and insists what is going on off the field will not affect him on it.

"When you are on the pitch you don't really think about anything else," Tate stresses.

"Maybe subconsciously there is something, but I am just getting on with things as best as I can.

"I am fairly happy with the way I have started the season, apart from the first half at Norwich.

"Like I said, everyone has their own problems and, while they all seem to have come at once for me, I just have to get on with it."

And for all football's irrelevance given what else is going on in Tate's life, a few good results will be most welcome.

"You always want to win games anyway, but the chance to send some good news back home is another reason to do well," Tate says.

No-one outside Burnley would begrudge him the key goal this weekend.

gareth.vincent@swwmedia.co.uk

Brendan Rodgers believes his Swansea City side are starting to show their true colours after finally beating their comeback curse.

And by doing so he claims his players are revealing a personality that will mean real progression for the club.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s visit of Championship promotion contenders Burnley, Rodgers suggested his side go into the clash having made a significant step in midweek.

Before Tuesday night’s Carling Cup victory at Tranmere, Swansea had not won a game after going behind in more than 18 months.

And, while Rodgers will refuse to read too much in what was an expected result against League One opposition, he did not downplay the importance of breaking such a sequence.

“I always think that 90 minutes of football reveals your personality as a player and as a team,” said Rodgers, who saw goals from Cedric van der Gun, Scott Sinclair and Shefki Kuqi turn around things at Prenton Park, having gone behind to Enoch Showumni’s first-half opener. “Hopefully now we are starting to see this team’s true personality coming out.

“We want to be winners and we want to achieve, but sometimes it is going to get uncomfortable. It was that on Tuesday, but we got over the hill and got the result.

“And we’re going to need that during the season so it was great to have that feeling back of having hope of getting back into a game. It bodes well for the future.”

Swansea’s lack of scoring prowess under Paulo Sousa, underlined by a lack of confidence in their final-third play, ensured Swansea did not come from behind at all last term.

And you have to go back to February 2009 – a 3-1 win against Doncaster – for the last time Swansea fought back to win from a losing score.

It was something brought up by Rodgers at half-time in midweek, challenging his players to show the statistic would not be a hindrance to this season’s aims.

“In fairness, it wasn’t just Swansea,” said Rodgers of the lack of resolve offered in the previous campaign. “When you look at the stats across the divisions, more than 50% if teams failed to win games after going behind. That’s a high percentage of teams – but they are not the successful teams.

“And changing that is crucial if we want to get anywhere, it is critical to development.

“Sometimes there is no greater feeling to have won a game from being behind, the satisfaction you gain having been up against it – and now we have that back.”

The challenge is on for Swansea to show that in the league now, against teams of the same standard rather than strugglers from the division below.

But Rodgers is pleased by the challenge met by his players as he looks to take things forward at the Liberty, adding: “I already know this group has talent – and I will continue to try and add to that – but there are two things you need in football as much as anything if you are to succeed and that is perseverance and determination.

“The players are beginning to understand the challenges I’m putting in front of them, they are accepting them and we are seeing the personality of the group as a result.

“Things like their resilience are important if we are to become successful.”

Rodgers is also pleased by another of the squad’s personality traits. He cited the “refreshing honesty” of Garry Monk in accepting responsibility for Tranmere’s first on Tuesday as an example, calling his captain “a wonderful leader” and claiming it is that openness that is allowing him to implement his ideas.

But, honesty or not, Rodgers knows there will be little room for error come tomorrow’s clash with the Clarets, a side whose unbeaten start to the campaign has given some early justification to their pre-season favourites’ tag.

“It is going to be a tough game,” conceded the Ulsterman. “They maintained a lot of the squad from last year and added one or two so it really is a challenge we can look forward to. It is a tough test, but it can be a good gauge for us as a side.

“We perhaps should have had more points as a side, but I would be more worried if the performance has not been there.

“We want to make the Liberty a fortress and we were fantastic against Preston where we set a standard.

“We know it won’t be like that every week, but it is a standard we want to try and maintain.

“And these players are so committed and honest they will push themselves to do so in every game which gives me great confidence.”

BRENDAN Rodgers remains confident that Henri Lansbury will soon be a Swansea City player despite a hold-up in the deal to sign him on loan from Arsenal.

Lansbury's proposed switch to the Liberty has been delayed because of injuries to Arsenal midfield pair Samir Nasri and Emmanuel Frimpong.

Lansbury also picked up a minor groin strain in training this week, meaning he would not be fit to face Burnley this Saturday even if the move was completed in time.

But Rodgers is optimistic that the Gunners starlet will eventually arrive in Wales, either before the summer transfer window closes next Tuesday or a week later when the emergency loan window opens.

"Henri has a slight injury and Arsenal have other problems in midfield so we are having to wait and see what happens," said the Swansea boss. "But I am hoping he will be back up and running soon and that he will then join us."

Lansbury is due to meet up with the England Under-21 squad next week, though his involvement is now in doubt because of the injury.

Ideally Swansea will sign him over the weekend or early next week, but it is understood a move for Dundee United striker Francisco Sandaza is highly unlikely. Reports in Scotland yesterday claimed the Dundee United striker was set to sign for Swansea. United boss Peter Houston even suggested Swansea had agreed a deal with Sandaza, but that is incorrect.

Sandaza, 25, spent two days training with Swansea last week and has spoken to Rodgers about a possible loan switch, but the transfer is not now expected to happen.

Swansea remain hopeful of landing West Ham's Frank Nouble on loan as well as a more experienced centre-forward before next week's deadline.

And Swansea are also expecting Kemy Agustien, the trialist who impressed during pre-season, to arrive at some stage.

Meanwhile, Rodgers hopes his players have turned a corner after Swansea came back from behind to win for the first time in 18 months.

Rodgers was thrilled with the powers of recovery his team showed at Tranmere on Tuesday night.

Trailing to Enoch Showunmi's goal with 17 minutes to go, Swansea looked to be heading for a Carling Cup exit. But quickfire strikes from Cedric van der Gun, Scott Sinclair and Shefki Kuqi mean Rodgers's men can look ahead to Saturday's third-round draw — when the Premier League's top sides are in the hat — with some anticipation.

Before Tranmere, Swansea had not overturned a deficit to win a game since Doncaster were beaten 3-1 at the Liberty back in February 2009.

"I've had a look at the statistics and whenever we went behind last season, we did not come back to win a game," Rodgers said. "I talked about that with the players at half-time on Tuesday. I said we had a chance to show a reaction, and the response I got was magnificent.

"It shows the spirit within the group and it was pleasing because Tranmere made life difficult for us.

"We went there with the aims of getting into the next round and showing that we are capable of winning away from home, which we hadn't managed previously.

"It was good for our mentality that we were able to do those things."

THE Carling Cup might have meant a rare chance for Scott Sinclair to feature had he prolonged his stay at Stamford Bridge.

Now the winger calls Swansea City home, he is one of the big stars who some might expect to be left out on League Cup nights.

A talented fringe player who struggled for first-team opportunities at Chelsea, Sinclair is a central figure at his new club.

His early performances in Swansea colours have offered a glimpse of his undoubted talent, the 21-year-old showing already why Brendan Rodgers was so keen to do a deal which could eventually be worth more than £1 million.

Things are going well for Sinclair as he attempts to put down some roots in South West Wales.

And as for being rested as Rodgers's men went to the Wirral in midweek, the idea never entered Sinclair's head.

"You would have to ask the gaffer if he was thinking about leaving me out," he says.

"But I wanted to be involved at Tranmere. I want to play every game I possibly I can, whether it's starting or coming off the bench.

"I want to get as many minutes as I can and I'm raring to go. I just want to get on the ball."

Rodgers is well aware of the new man's hunger to make an impression.

While a clutch of first-team heavyweights including Darren Pratley, Nathan Dyer and David Cotterill were left in Swansea on Tuesday night, the club's potential jewel in the crown went north.

Sinclair began the night on the substitutes' bench, and it is a decent bet that he might have remained there throughout had Swansea's starting line-up brushed Tranmere aside.

As it was, Rovers made life uncomfortable for their Championship opponents, snuffing Swansea out and then threatening occasionally through Enoch Showunmi.

When the 6ft 5in frontman put Tranmere ahead, Swansea spent a worrying period staring at a third away defeat of the season.

But Rodgers's team woke up after the interval at Prenton Park, and the introduction of Sinclair and Stephen Dobbie helped bring the cutting edge they had earlier been lacking.

After a freak goal from Cedric van der Gun brought Swansea level — and before Shefki Kuqi's late drive wrapped up the win — Sinclair's sizzling pace took him clear and a neat left-foot finish saw him register a first goal for his new side. "It was a great feeling to get on the scoresheet," Sinclair admits.

"The main priority was for the team to win the game, but I'm happy to get the first goal out of the way and hopefully I can now start building on that."

In his 91st senior appearance — 47 of which have been starts — this was Sinclair's 11th goal.

That record suggests that expecting him to score a hatful this season would be ill-advised, but the threat he has carried in his three Swansea appearances to date indicates that he can be a real danger. "I haven't really set myself a target. I will just try to score as many goals as I can," he continues.

"It's good to have the first one under my belt — it's been a little frustrating not to have got one already. But sometimes you don't put chances away and it's still early in the season.

"Hopefully the goals will keep coming as the season goes on."

Starting, perhaps, against Burnley this weekend.

There will be no question marks over Sinclair's involvement this Saturday, when Rodgers's men aim to sign off before the international break with victory over one of the Championship's more fancied sides.

"The gaffer talked to us about getting two wins this week before the Tranmere game, and that is still the target," Sinclair adds.

"If we play like we did in the second half on Tuesday, I'm sure we'll do well."

And so the cup moves on to the backburner, at least until the draw is made for round three on Saturday afternoon.

"If we get Chelsea it would be nice," Sinclair says through a smile, "but for now I'm just thinking about Burnley."

SWANSEA CITY’S move for England Under-21 starlet Henri Lansbury has been put on hold by Arsenal’s injury woes.

Boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to add loan signing Lansbury with the young midfielder impressing during a similar spell at Watford last season.

But Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger – who must name a 25-man Premier League squad next week – is understood to be considering his options after Emmanuel Frimpong was ruled out for six to nine months after damaging cruciate knee ligaments in training.

“It’s still pending. Arsenal have had injuries and had to take a step back,” said Rodgers on the day Lansbury was named in the England Under-21 squad to face Portugal and Lithuania in the European Under-21 Championship.

“Frimpong got injured and Henri plays in that position.

“So we must await and see what Arsenal are saying. The important thing is that I’m looking to build a strong squad here, not just 11 players.

“I want to build a group and a squad and that’s why some guys on the fringe had an opportunity to play at Tranmere.”

Rodgers was delighted after Swansea booked their place in the third round of the Carling Cup with a 3-1 comeback win at Prenton Park.

“The reaction of the players was fantastic,” he said. “Looking at the statistics last year when they went behind, they haven’t come back and won.

“So that reaction in the second half was outstanding – we coupled a bit of aggression with our possession and we created chances.

“I felt it was important for our mentality to come away from home and win.

“I got a big reaction – I picked that out before the game and at half-time – and it shows the spirit in the group.

“That was the first thing I wanted. The other was to be in the next round and demonstrate our qualities against a big club or the possibility of going further into the fourth round.”

SCOTT SINCLAIR admitted taking a Carling Cup breather was the last thing on his mind after he kept Swansea City’s interest in the competition alive.

It’s not uncommon for key players to be left at home in the early rounds of the Carling Cup – note the absence of Craig Bellamy in Cardiff City’s 2-1 defeat at Peterborough – with vital league games looming just a few days later.

But Sinclair – who has already underlined his value to the Swansea cause since his record move from Chelsea earlier this month – was determined not be kicking his heels in South Wales when Brendan Rodgers’ side travelled to Tranmere Rovers on Tuesday.

And Rodgers felt the benefits as Sinclair’s first Swansea goal helped turn a 1-0 deficit into a 3-1 victory at Prenton Park.

“I’m looking to play every game – whether I start or if I come on, I’m raring to go,” said Sinclair, enjoying a new lease of life at Swansea after finally putting down some roots on the back of several loan spells around the country.

“I want to play as many minutes as I can. I suppose you saw that when I came on, I couldn’t wait to get the ball and play.”

The deal to bring the talented Sinclair to the Liberty Stadium could eventually exceed £1m – a new Swansea record.

But it already appears money well spent as the 21-year-old winger has hit the ground running in South Wales.

Sinclair shone in league games against Preston and Norwich – winning an unconverted penalty at Carrow Road – and his pace and movement has caused no end of problems for every opponent so far.

Swans boss Rodgers said: “I would think Scott is going to be very popular with the fans and that’s why I brought him here.

“He’s a boy I know well, you can just see the penetration he gives us and is so important for us.

“We’ve been wonderful with the ball, so we’ve just got to make sure we get penetration and get behind teams as well as play in front of them.

“Scotty gives us that. He scored one at Tranmere, he maybe could have had a couple more and his movement was fantastic.

“I always had it in my mind, and on my notes, that between 65 and 75 minutes I wanted that injection of pace into the game to get the intensity up, no matter how the game was going.”

Sinclair certainly provided that as his introduction alongside Stephen Dobbie quickly changed the course of events on Merseyside.

And the way he put Swansea 2-1 ahead, arrowing a shot across goalkeeper Joe Collister into the bottom corner of the net with his weaker left foot, suggested that Sinclair’s strike will be the first of many in a Swans shirt.

“It was a great feeling getting the goal,” said the Bath-born player.

“The main priority was to get the win, but I was delighted to get the goal and start building on that.

“It’s been frustrating because I’ve had a couple of chances to score in other games and I haven’t put them away.

“But it’s early season and if I keep progressing and working hard then I’ll be looking to score goals.

“I haven’t really set a target – I just want to score as many as I can and bring goals to the team – but, as I’ve said, the main priority is winning games.”

Sinclair’s impact at Tranmere put Swansea in the Carling Cup third round hat, the draw for which will be made on Saturday lunchtime.

And that could even see him reunited with former club Chelsea as the big boys prepare to enter the competition.

“It would be nice to get Chelsea and I’ll have a little eye on who we get,” said Sinclair, who made only 14 appearances for the Premier League champions.

“If we get Chelsea, we get Chelsea – but I haven’t thought about it too much.

“I’m just looking forward to the league games and playing every game I can.

“Every game is a tough game and Burnley on Saturday will be no different.

“The gaffer told us that it would be great to win these two games before the international break and we’ve won the first one.

“Now we’ll look to the Burnley game and hopefully carry it on. I’m sure that if we start the way we played the second half at Tranmere then I’m sure we’ll do well. I’ve been out on loan to quite a few clubs, but Swansea’s one of the best passing teams I’ve played with, and I’m just happy to be playing with these boys.”

Swansea City frontman Stephen Dobbie has signed a new three-year contract with the club so ending Blackpool FC’s transfer hopes.

The 27-year-old Scottish frontman spent the final four months of last season on loan with the Seasiders helping them claim promotion to the Premier League.

Dobbie said: "I know there have been a few enquiries from Blackpool along the way, but I'm just glad I've put pen to paper and can concentrate on my football with Swansea City.

"I didn't find the interest from Blackpool too unsettling because it means you must be doing something right when other teams want to buy you. I went there, did well and have fond memories of the place.

"But it's all about Swansea for me, especially with the new gaffer (Brendan Rogers) in charge. He's been fantastic with me and I want to repay him with a few goals."

The deal now also appears to cast doubt on boss Ian Holloway’s attempts to lure striker Angel Rangel to Bloomfield Road as he also wanted Dobbie included in any deal with the Swans.

SWANSEA CITY have seen off Blackpool’s hopes of luring striker Stephen Dobbie to the Premier League after agreeing a new Liberty Stadium deal with the striker.

Tangerines boss Ian Holloway made two separate bids for his former loan star, with reports suggesting he was going to make a third this week.

But Dobbie, who had a year left to run on his current deal, has agreed to extend his stay with the Swans until 2013 after the moves were blocked.

The Scot had been frozen out under Paulo Sousa and was farmed out to Bloomfield Road where he played a significant role in Blackpool’s play-off success.

But, having been given a new lease of life under boss Brendan Rodgers, Dobbie insists he is delighted to have committed to the club.

And, even with Rodgers going on record to say he is searching for new strikers before the transfer window closes this month, Dobbie says he’s happy to fight for his place knowing he will now be given a fair chance to prove himself.

Speaking of his new deal, Dobbie said: “It’s a bit of a turnaround from where I was a couple of months ago, but that’s down to the manager who was here and then the manager who’s come in.

“In the summer I certainly didn’t think I’d be signing a new contract, it was more of a case of coming back to maybe go away again because of the manager that was here.

“But things can change quickly in football and I’m happy of that. I wanted to get settled, especially having a young family, and it was a difficult time with the previous manager not fancying me and not knowing about my future.

“But the new manager coming in gave me a chance to work hard and impress which hopefully I’ve done. I’m playing, feeling good, scored my first and I want to carry on and get more.

“And, although there’s been talk of other strikers coming in, that’s fine and all you can ask for is a fair fight. That’s what I wanted when I came back from breaking my ribs last year, but I played one game and he didn’t see me again until January.

“The new manager is going to bring in new players, players of the quality of Scott Sinclair that can only improve the team, but everyone has a fair fight for their place and that’s important.”

Rodgers, poised for a move for West Ham youngster Frank Nouble as well as a more experienced frontman, has told the former Rangers and Hibs man he sees him as a key part of his plans at the Liberty, something Dobbie is delighted despite it ending the chance of a top-flight switch to Blackpool.

“The new manager having confidence in me has been massive,” added Dobbie

Dundee United striker Francisco Sandaza is on the brink of a move to Championship club Swansea.

The 25-year-old Spaniard, who was plagued by injuries last season, has been given the green light to leave Tannadice by manager Peter Houston.

Sandaza, who has made a total of 43 appearances for United, scoring 11 goals, impressed while on trial at the Liberty Stadium last week, and Swans boss Brendan Rodgersis set to offer him a permanent deal.

"Fran looks to be moving on and I believe Swansea have agreed a package with him," Houston said in the Daily Record.

"He is one of our top earners but because of his fitness problems we've not been able to get him on the pitch and Swansea are willing to take a chance on him."

Sandaza, who has a year remaining on his United contract, missed the first seven months of their last campaign with serious hernia problems and did not return to action until March this year.

Then, following just eight appearances, the forward tore a hamstring during a 2-0 defeat to Celtic at the end of April and was ruled out for the rest of the season.

STEPHEN Dobbie has admitted it is nice to feel wanted again after agreeing a new three-year Swansea City contract.

The striker has put pen to paper on a new agreement which will keep him at the Liberty until 2013 — just months after he seemed certain to depart.

Dobbie has revealed that there have been at least two bids from Blackpool for his services this summer.

But the 27-year-old Scot is unconcerned about missing out on the chance to play Premier League football because he is happy with life under Brendan Rodgers.

Dobbie was dispatched to Blackpool on loan last February after being frozen out of the first-team picture by then Swansea boss Paulo Sousa.

But the former Rangers youngster is now a central part of Rodgers's plans.

"Blackpool have made a couple of bids for me, but I'm delighted to have sorted out the new contract," Dobbie said.

"It's a bit of a turnaround when you look at how things were a few months ago, but that's down to the manager who was here and the manager we have now.

"In May I thought I was coming back just to go away again because of the manager at the time.

"There was a lot of uncertainty because he didn't fancy me, but the new gaffer has come in and I've worked hard to impress him.

"He has had a massive influence on me signing the new deal.

"It's always good when a manager likes you to start off with, and I just want to be part of things here."

Dobbie has started Swansea's three league games so far, opening his account for the season in the 4-0 thrashing of Preston last week.

Rodgers is keen to add at least one more centre-forward to his squad before the transfer window closes next week, but Dobbie insists he would welcome the arrival of a high quality forward.

"I have a lot of friends up in Blackpool and I have a lot of respect for the gaffer up there," he added.

"But it's more important to me that I'm playing every week and the team are on the front foot, rather than maybe defending for most of every game.

"I enjoy the way we play at Swansea, and it's nice to have a manager who has some confidence in me again.

"Playing up front with players like Nathan Dyer, Scott Sinclair, David Cotterill and Darren Pratley, I think you can only score goals."

Dobbie found the back of the net three times in his early days as a Swan after Roberto Martinez brought him to Wales.

But after picking up a rib injury last August, Dobbie barely got another chance to impress under Sousa.

He played a significant part in Blackpool's promotion to the top flight and now aims to repeat the feat with Swansea.

SCOTT Sinclair fired his first goal for Swansea City as Brendan Rodgers's men climbed off the canvas to knock Tranmere Rovers out of the Carling Cup last night.

Sloppy Swansea looked to be heading for a humbling defeat after a miserable first-half performance on the Wirral.

But a freak goal from Cedric van der Gun and a touch of class from Sinclair inside 60 seconds — and a late third from Shefki Kuqi — saw Rodgers chalk up his first away win as Swansea boss.

Six and a half years ago Brian Flynn's Swansea lost here to end the Lee Trundle-inspired run to the FA Cup fifth round.

Back then Swansea were the underdogs, but they began as favourites this time around despite Brendan Rodgers making seven changes to the side which started at Norwich last weekend.

Out went Alan Tate, Darren Pratley, Mark Gower, David Cotterill, Nathan Dyer, Scott Sinclair and Stephen Dobbie as Rodgers gave some of his fringe men a chance.

Among them was Casey Thomas, the 18-year-old making his first Swansea start on the right flank.

There was another full debut at left-back for Neil Taylor, while Joe Allen continued his rehabilitation after shoulder surgery in the centre of midfield.

Tranmere boss Les Parry picked his strongest possible side as the hosts went in search of a first victory on their own patch this season.

And it was the League One side who enjoyed the better of what was a largely uninspiring first half. Rodgers's men were trying to get their passing game going, and in spells they kept the ball fairly well.

But there was almost no sign of a Swansea breakthrough as their rejigged forward line gave the home rearguard little to think about.

Tranmere's 18-year-old goalkeeper, Joe Collister, would have been delighted with his lack of work as the men in front of him kept Swansea at arm's length without too much trouble.

In fairness, there was not a lot for Dorus de Vries to do either in what was a scrappy contest.

But it was Tranmere, spearheaded by powerhouse frontman Enoch Showunmi, who carried what menace there was in the first 45.

Showunmi's flick teed up Tranmere's first effort of the night, Joss Labadie galloping on from midfield but skewing his shot towards the corner flag.

Cue groans on three sides of Prenton Park — but they were not to last.

Just four minutes later, a long clearance from Collister was misjudged by Garry Monk and Showunmi made Swansea pay.

The former Bristol City striker is built like a boxer, but he showed some finesse to nod the ball beyond the advancing de Vries before steering a half-volley into the net.

Swansea might have struck back instantly had Allen's drive flown the right side of the post, but that was a rare bright moment for the men in black.

At the other end Aaron Cresswell's cross just eluded a stretching Showunmi, then Taylor's low centre was hacked clear by Ian Goodison as Shefki Kuqi closed in.

This was a Swansea side packed with players needing to stake a claim for a chance in the Championship, but few were doing themselves much good.

That almost changed within two minutes of the restart, Andrea Orlandi playing a sweet through ball for Allen just inside the box.

The Wales man had only Collister to beat, but the rookie goalkeeper saved superbly to keep Tranmere in front.

Seven minutes later Kuqi's header drifted just wide, then Allen's 20-yarder was smothered by Collister.

Swansea had arrived in the game at last, and Rodgers looked to increase their threat by summoning Dobbie and Sinclair from the bench.

The former Chelsea winger was quickly involved, but his driven free-kick flew comfortably over the top. No matter — Swansea would come again. Kuqi had been quiet, but it was the big man's hold-up play which triggered Swansea's curious equaliser.

Fed by his striker, Orlandi smashed goalwards from 20 yards and saw his effort crash back off the crossbar.

The rebound fell to van der Gun who, under pressure from a defender, stumbled and yet somehow bundled the ball over the line.

And within a minute the revival was complete – thanks to more good work from Kuqi.

This time the targetman laid off to Sinclair, who raced between two defenders before drilling a left-footed shot into the far corner of the net.

Swansea await Saturday's draw with interest.

Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers was delighted with the 3-1 victory at Tranmere which saw his side progress in the Carling Cup.

Two second-half goals in 60 seconds saw the Swans come from behind to make it into the third round.

Dogged Rovers took the lead in the 22nd minute through Enoch Showunmi and looked like creating a surprise.

Cedric van der Gun and Scott Sinclair scored within a minute of each other and Shefki Kuqi netted a third in stoppage time.

Rodgers said: "We had plenty of possession, but no penetration in the first half. We made a mistake and went a goal behind.

"The reaction of the players was fantastic in the second half. We were a bit more aggressive, and it paid off. Obviously, I am very pleased with the outcome. All round, the team was very good, and Sinclair made an impact when he came on.

"It was important to get into the next round with a chance to demonstrate our ability against a big club.

"We also wanted to show we can win away from home, and that's what we did very well.

"I made changes because I felt I could pick a team to win a game. The players on the fringes had a chance to prove something, and did so. Now let's hope for a good draw in the next stage."

Tranmere manager Les Parry felt his side were unlucky not to progress to the third round of the competition.

He said: "The score does not reflect the game. We played really well in the first half and created some good chances. Our keeper made only one real save.

"We will play a lot worse than that and win. The result was gutting for the lads. But we can take a lot of pluses, although a third successive defeat at home is hard to take."

Parry explained why he named John Welsh the new skipper in place of Ian Thomas-Moore.

He said: "The situation with Thomas-Moore has dragged on since he made a transfer request.

"I thought that enough was enough and I had to do something, so I made a change in captaincy.

"John Welsh is one of the jokers in the pack, and is the ideal replacement."

Two second-half goals in 60 seconds saw Swansea come from behind to progress in the Carling Cup at the expense of Tranmere in a 3-1 win.
Dogged Rovers took the lead in the 22nd minute through Enoch Showunmi and looked like creating a surprise.

But Cedric van der Gun and Scott Sinclair scored within a minute of each other and Shefki Kuqi netted a third in stoppage time.

Showunmi fastened on to a long punt upfield and netted for the League One side with an excellent angled volley.

City, who started with only four from Saturday's Championship line-up, threatened just once in the first half, with Joe Collister hanging on well to a strike by Joe Allen.

Allen should have made it 1-1 two minutes after the break but his shot was turned over by Collister. Then Kuqi headed wide.

City enjoyed the lion's share of possession but failed to make full use of it until a telling 60 seconds after Stephen Dobie and Sinclair had joined the action.

Ian Goodison and Max Blanchard were excellent in a compact Tranmere rearguard which paid dearly in the end for a brief period of slackness.

Van der Gun scrambled the ball home in the 74th minute when an Andrea Orlandi strike rebounded from the bar.

Then almost straight from the re-start Sinclair rounded two defenders and beat Collister with a left foot hit from twelve yards.

A third Swansea goal in stoppage time from Kuqi made the scoreline tough on the Merseysiders.

Les Parry hopes the chance to take on Championship side Swansea City will be all the motivation his players need to bounce back from Saturday's defeat against Bournemouth.

Rovers take on the Swans in the Carling Cup second round at Prenton Park on Tuesday night, with the Manager telling Tranmere Player: "If the lads need picking up for the game tomorrow there is something wrong. We've had the report on Swansea and the Norwich manager said they're the best footballing side that he'd seen at Carrow Road. It took two late goals to beat them after Swansea missed a penalty. So it's a big task for us but it's certainly one the lads will look forward to.

"We did well in the cup against Wolves and against Norwich and Southampton at home last season, and part of that is down to the way we play. We're not gung ho at home which we were at home on Saturday and that's what happens when we are."

Meanwhile, the Manager has more injury concerns in defence with Ian Goodison picking up a knock against the Cherries.

Les continued: "Ian Goodison is struggling. He wanted to come off with a knock to his ankle. He had treatment yesterday and won't train today, so he's a major doubt.

"You can put up with three or four injuries are all strikers or centre halves that's when it bothers you. We've got Ash Taylor out, we've got Marlon out and now we've got Ian Goodison as well. So we're getting younger and younger at the back."

Boss Brendan Rodgers says Swansea City's Carling Cup second round trip to struggling League One side Tranmere Rovers should not be taken for granted.

Rovers are next to bottom with just one point from their opening three games.
"Even though it's been difficult for them... there's a big motivation from any team to beat an opponent from a higher league in the cup," he said.

Swansea have only won once in the league after suffering a second defeat of the season at Norwich on Saturday.

And while Rodgers knows league form is vital, he says he will be taking the Carling Cup seriously and can use it as a morale-booster following Saturday's late 2-0 loss at Carrow Road.

"Cup games are important and I like to do well in cup competitions but I also have to bear in mind that we have an important league game on Saturday," added Rodgers. "We'll have a strong side out.
"I think it's very important that you win your next game. How we lost on Saturday is disappointing, but it's gone. We move on and need to put that right on Tuesday night."

Swansea beat League Two side Barnet 3-0 in the last round and should they overcome Tranmere at Prenton Park, they could be drawn against one of the top Premier League sides who enter at the third round.
Tranmere were rewarded a match against the Swans after beating Walsall 1-0 away in the first round

BRENDAN Rodgers has dangled the carrot of a plum Carling Cup tie in front of his players ahead of tonight's tricky trip to Tranmere Rovers.

The Swansea City manager will ring the changes at Prenton Park with one eye on Saturday's Championship clash with Burnley.

But Rodgers insists he will pick a team good enough to follow up the comfortable first-round win over Barnet with victory over their League One hosts.

Tranmere have made a mixed start to the season, losing their two home games to date but winning their cup tie at Walsall and picking up an encouraging draw at Huddersfield.

And Rodgers warned: "They haven't had as good a start as they would have liked, but this will be a difficult game for us.

"We'll need to have the right focus and mentality to get through to the next round, which is our objective.

"For me the cup competitions are important. The priority is the league obviously, but we want to do well in the FA Cup and the Carling Cup.

"If you get through the early rounds of this competition, you can very quickly find yourself with a great draw and that's something we'd all like to happen."

A shortage of defensive options means Rodgers is likely to field a strong rearguard this evening, although Neil Taylor could make his first Swansea start at left-back ahead of Alan Tate.

Darren Pratley, Mark Gower and David Cotterill could all be rested along with the front three who started at Norwich last Saturday — Nathan Dyer, Scott Sinclair and Stephen Dobbie.

Shefki Kuqi, Cedric van der Gun, Andrea Orlandi, Jordi Lopez and Joe Allen are all on standby for starts along with youngster Casey Thomas.

"There will be some players who played at Norwich involved again and there will be others who have been on the fringe," Rodgers added.

"But we will be strong enough to go and get a result."

Tranmere have a doubt over influential central defender Ian Goodison, while 18-year-old Joe Collister looks set to start in goal.

LIKENED to Paul Gascoigne as a youngster, Mark Gower has been compared to another footballing superstar as he enjoys an Indian summer at Swansea City.

Claude Makelele is probably not the kind of player Gower ever expected to be mentioned alongside.

But Gower's new boss, Brendan Rodgers, reckons there are similarities between the two.

Gower, who will be 32 in October, conceded last season that he was "no spring chicken" any more.

Yet the former Southend winger has looked a man reborn since the change of manager at the Liberty.

Rodgers has switched Gower to a new holding role in central midfield, the kind Makelele filled so successfully for Chelsea and Real Madrid.

And the Northern Irishman believes Gower can draw inspiration from the example set by ex-France international Makelele.

"I said to Mark that getting to the age he is, he can play the Makelele role because he knows the game and he has a wonderful football brain," Rodgers says.

"Not many people realise it, but Makelele was a winger until he was about 26 years of age.

"Everyone thinks he played the position all his life, but he actually only moved there later in his career."

Signed as an attacking wideman in 2008, Gower has been a consistent performer for Swansea but has been frustrated by a lack of goals.

The failure to get on the scoresheet will not be an issue if he continues the sort of form he has shown in Swansea's fixtures against Preston and Norwich.

Gower has morphed into a ball-winning midfielder capable of distributing either long or short.

"In Mark, I see a guy who works hard every day with good intelligence," Rodgers adds.

"He is great in the group and I think in that position he can do very well.

"He has a good range of passing, his tenacity is very good and he understands the idea of what we're trying to do.

"The role he plays allows us to get our other players higher up the pitch.

"Our wide players can get higher up which means they can provide offensive threat and create things."

The imminent arrival of Henri Lansbury means increased competition in an area of the field where the contest for a start is already fierce.

The likes of Darren Pratley, Joe Allen, Andrea Orlandi and David Cotterill are all in contention, but Gower is more than holding his own right now.

Rodgers looks like taking the opportunity to rest the Londoner's limbs in tonight's Carling Cup tie at Tranmere.

But expect Gower to be back in the starting side when Championship points are up for grabs next weekend.

gareth.vincent@swwmedia.co.uk

BRENDAN Rodgers has hailed Henri Lansbury as "a terrific talent" as the Arsenal starlet closes on a move to Swansea City.

The Swansea manager reckons Lansbury has the quality to make a mark at the Emirates later in his career.

But Rodgers admits the 19-year-old's loan switch to the Liberty is a chance for Swansea to sell themselves in case he ends up leaving London on a full-time basis.

"Henri is a wonderful young player who did well in the Championship last season," he said. "To get a terrific talent like him into our group will be fantastic for us.

"He is very highly thought of at Arsenal and one thing you know with Arsene Wenger is that he will give young players an opportunity.

"If Arsenal feel he is one for the future, I'm sure he will be around at the club for a few years.

"The worst-case scenario is that there comes a point in a player's career where he has to look elsewhere.

"We have seen that with Scott Sinclair, and over the next couple of years Henri will have to see if he feels he is going to get a chance at Arsenal. If he does not, he may then have to find a home somewhere else."

Lansbury's base until at least January is Swansea, and Rodgers believes the Londoner will soon grow to like his new surroundings.

"These players coming on loan don't know what a beautiful area Swansea is," he added.

"I have got a very good sense of what the Welsh people are like over the last four or five weeks and I can see that it's a fantastic place to work and live.

"We want to be able to convince good players to come here and loan moves help us.

"Once players arrive, they see the beauty that's here, the support and the players we have, and I think the decision is made."

Lansbury could extend his spell with Swansea until the end of the season if things go well over the next five months.

The England Under-21 international, who has five Arsenal appearances to his name, has thrived in previous loan stints at Scunthorpe and Watford.

And Rodgers reckons Lansbury's attitude is the key to the success he has enjoyed.

"We want to bring in very good players, but we also want players with the right personality," he said.

"Even though he is coming in on loan, Henri is the type of boy who will adapt and throw himself into life at the club.

"Some players just see a loan somewhere as a loan and nothing more, but the boys who are educated at big clubs are very professional and know they are coming for a purpose."

Rodgers revealed that he is not keen on building a squad packed with borrowed players.

But with West Ham's Frank Nouble still a target, the former Reading boss concedes that a sprinkling of loan stars can have a positive impact.

"I don't want many because I want players who are signed up to this club," Rodgers added. "But if there's an opportunity to get one, two or a maximum three players on loan who can add something to the group, we will look at that."

Lansbury is not available for tonight's Carling Cup trip to Tranmere as the paperwork on his move was still to be completed last night.

But Swansea hope the deal will be tied up today, meaning he will be free to debut in Saturday's Championship clash with Brian Laws's Burnley.

BRENDAN RODGERS is hoping Mark Gower can draw inspiration from Claude Makelele after being handed the holding role at Swansea City.

A winger by trade, Gower has been told to fill the boots of Leon Britton and anchor the Swans midfield by boss Rodgers over the first few weeks of the season.

And the trick has worked, the former Tottenham trainee turning in a man-of-the-match performance at Norwich having already impressed in the previous week’s win over Preston.

Still, while Gower has occupied a central position before, it seems strange that such an attacking figure now has the responsibility of protecting the back four.

Yet Rodgers insists it is not that surprising a success story given the background of former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Makelele, a player so good in the role it became named after him.

“Not many people realise that Makelele was a winger until he was 26,” said Rodgers, who worked with the Champions League winner while coaching at Stamford Bridge.

“Everyone thinks he played that role in front of the back four all his life, but he only transferred there later in his career.

“And I told this to Mark because he has a wonderful football brain and knows the game.

“He’s someone who works hard every day but also someone with great intelligence about the game. He’s getting to an age where he can play that role because he understands what we’re trying to do.”

Gower did shift inside under previous boss Paulo Sousa, although that was higher up the field rather than at the base where he now finds himself.

And, at 31, the thought is that Gower has the experience and know-how to bring the balance Rodgers’ attack-orientated side needs.

But although the role is defensive in its positioning and with a duty to help break up attacks, Makelele was more than just a destroyer.

He was credited with making his teams tick by starting attacks from the back – something Rodgers is keen to see from his man.

“He’s got a great tenacity, which is important,” said Rodgers. “But it his range of passing that allows us to get other players, our wide players, higher up the pitch to give us that offensive threat and make sure we create things.”

Given Swansea’s need to create a lot more than they did last season, you can see why Rodgers is hoping lightening could strike twice when it comes to wingers entering the engine room.

And it certainly seemed as though the gamble was beginning to pay off at Carrow Road, Gower akin to a quarterback the way he switched play from his deep-laying role.

“It’s something I’m enjoying,” admitted Gower, a free signing from Southend two years ago.

“The manager asked me to play somewhere a bit different and told me about Makelele doing the same.

“I found that amazing because you would have thought he played that role all his life.

“You do have times when you instinctively want to go forward, but I have lads like Garry Monk and Ashley Williams who are good talkers.

“If they see me edging forwards they let me know about it. But I’m getting used to it, enjoying it, and in the last few games I feel as if I’ve done everything that’s been asked of me. I’ve kept the ball for the team and occasionally hit the long pass and it is coming off well for me. Hopefully I can carry it on.”

It looks like he will get the chance, although Rodgers may be tempted to give Jordi Lopez a run-out in the role for tonight’s Carling Cup second-round tie at Tranmere.

There is the arrival of Dutchman Kemy Agustien to take into account, but right now Gower has the shirt and has every right to keep it.

And the player himself admits he will not take that lightly given the fact he feared for opportunities this season.

“In my head I was wondering if I was going to play because we have Nathan Dyer, David Cotterill, Cedric van der Gun and Tommy Butler all in there before Scott Sinclair signed later on,” the Londoner said.

“I’m getting on a bit so I was wondering how much game time I might get. But this opportunity has come along and I’ve tried to take it.”

And although no-one is expecting him to quite get to the standards of the masterful Makelele, Gower has certainly given his manager a new option in the role.

There could easily be an argument to play Joe Allen there, though he may be better suited to a out-and-out central role – a position he should fill at Prenton Park as he continues his comeback from summer shoulder surgery.

And Rodgers has pledged to give other fringe players a chance to impress in the cup clash, suggesting there could be an outing for the likes of Scott Donnelly in midfield, van der Gun out wide and Shefki Kuqi in attack.

Rodgers is unlikely to shift much at the back but Neil Taylor is in contention for a first start after impressing as a second-half substitute at Norwich.

The Wales Under-21 cap is expected to play at left-back, with Alan Tate covering for the injured Angel Rangel.