Brendan – Players Don’t Like Coming Here

Brendan Rodgers has no doubt why the Swans have managed to turn the Liberty Stadium into a fortress

8 points from 12 available at home contrasts greatly to 1 from 15 on the road this season and Brendan knows that his side must continue on their home form if they are to progress towards their ultimate goal this season of safety.

Bolton Wanderers are next to try and break down the fortress this season with none of the four visitors so far managing so much as a goal against the Swans with Rodgers saying “Whoever you are, your game at home is different to when you’re away,” he says. “But for us, our strength at home is down to a couple of factors.

“We’ve tried to develop the mindset that whatever team comes here we play our game and to our strength and our own style. And, in my time here, I’ve sensed and observed a real confidence in our game here.

“But I believe the massive advantage we have is in our support. There’s an understanding and a patience about what we do. That collective, inherent belief in our philosophy is the critical factor.

“I could take this group of players to many different clubs in the country, put them in a different shirt, and they wouldn’t be the same because they wouldn’t have that support and understanding.

“We have a support that’s been brought up over many years on a stylish way of playing, like to see good football and are educated in that way. That’s a massive advantage.

“I’ve spoken to a number of players that have come here and they don’t look forward to it,” he says. “I’ve always said I want to make it the longest 90 minutes of people’s lives when they play here because footballers hate having to chase the ball. When they play us, that’s what we aim to do.

“I am sure players come here and, before a ball is kicked, they know they are going to be in for a tough time.

“It’s part of what we’ve achieved since we’ve been here and it’s something I’m very proud of. But we must continue with it.”