Planet Swans ArchivesThe eyes of the football world will be on the Liberty this evening as the Carling Cup enters town with the added spice of a local derby to boost it up a little in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
And Roberto is well aware of the atmosphere that will greet both teams when they take to the pitch and he believes firmly that it will be an atmosphere that is remembered for a long time.
There are also question marks over his team selection and whilst he is likely to change things from Saturday he is also confident that whatever team he selects will be good enough to win the game.
He told the Western Mail “We are all very excited by it
“It’s one of those games you can fully focus on the football occasion. Look at the situation we’re in; it’s the third round of the Carling Cup which is important enough in itself, but then it’s the first real derby in nine years which is huge.
“And it is set against a feel-good factor for us with the new stadium and the group of players we’ve got. You can see it’s a very healthy position to be in.
“We must remember that everything we do is to please the fans and I can guarantee the team will be one that can be expected to win the game for them.
“We must look at where we are as individuals and as a team,” he said.
“There are a couple who need a rest in a demanding period so we have to share the effort through the squad. If you cannot do that then it is a sign of failure.
“But that is not an issue as we have a big and capable squad and in these situations you find out the strength of it. I haven’t got a strongest side, just a strong squad, and whoever plays will play because they are ready to perform.
“Line-ups and tactics are great talking points before the game, but I know my players and I can guarantee whoever plays is capable of performing and winning.
“Names don’t win games, attitudes and performances do and whoever will play will be expected to perform the way he can – nothing less.
“I expect a great atmosphere, for one, There are certain games where the atmosphere lives long in your memory and anyone at the Liberty tonight will remember it for a long time.
“And I guarantee the passion and desire in the stands will be matched on the football pitch.
“We have had many big occasions this year because we are in a season where we are playing many teams for the first time in years, but we all know Cardiff v Swansea is not like any other game, it’s a unique occasion and a day we can all look forward to.
“We are looking to carry on as a football club where we can look back over 18 months and see we have been successful,” he added.
“But we also know how important it can be if you can put one over your rivals to give a lot of happiness to your fans.”
