Planet Swans ArchivesThe Swansea City captain recognises the power of supporter passion and knows that outnumbering their opposite numbers 10 to 1 can give the Swans the advantage that could see them home.
Monk knows how big this fixture is to both sets of fans and makes reference to people talking about it for months as the two sides clash in the league for the first time in 10 years.
Speaking on Real Radio’s Sports phone-in, the Swans captain said “I don’t think anyone has to talk up how big this game is or how much it means.
“The intensity you get in a derby game, especially this one, means we all get to know what the fans feel about it.
“And, although it was good to win the cup game, we know Sunday will be different. It’s a tough game that we will have to be prepared for because it’s a massive game for both clubs and both cities.
“It’s definitely huge for the supporters. Before the last game it’s all the fans wanted to talk to you about, for months beforehand even though we had other games first.
“That sort of feeling creates a great atmosphere and it will be the same again on Sunday, I’m sure.
“The crowd played a huge part for us in the last game, but they have done all season.
“I’m sure both sides could sense the intensity in the last match, but it was our backyard and there’s no way we want to lose on our own patch.
“We’ve only lost once at the Liberty in the league when we played Birmingham the other night, and we shouldn’t have lost that.
“So, come Sunday we will have that same feeling. It’s a huge thing to have fans right behind us, even if it’s appealing for decisions because all those little things can go with you and make the difference.
“the league is a big priority for us too.
“At the start of the season perhaps we weren’t too sure of our aims ourselves because we knew we were a young side and very inexperienced at this level.
“But we’ve pretty much played everyone there is now and we’ve really grown in confidence because there is no-one out there for us to fear in the league.
“So now it’s just a case of keep on going as we have been. We haven’t set any targets, then maybe in March we’ll have a look at where we are and what we are challenging for, be it mid-table or play-offs or whatever, and take it from there.
“But right now the only aim in our minds is to take this team as far as we can.
“I think we’ve said as a squad how surprised we are at how direct and physical we’ve found the league.
“Perhaps it’s because of the pressure on some of the bigger teams to get promoted that they end up playing percentage football, but I find it strange when a side like Wolves play route one when you look at the quality of players they’ve got, although it’s effective for them because look where they are in the table – it’s what works for you.
“But I think we play some really good football, just as Cardiff do, and that’s what makes the derby a great game to look forward to.
“Losing Ferrie Bodde is obviously a massive blow for us because he’s been one of our best players this season and the interest he’s been creating elsewhere just shows how well he’s done in his performances and popping up with goals too.
“Replacing players like that is hard, but other lads have got their chance now, I mean Owain Tudur Jones came in against Coventry and was fantastic.
“And I’ve spoken to Leon Britton and he’s OK – a bit sore, but he’ll be doing all he can to be fit for Sunday because who would want to miss that one?”
