Planet Swans ArchivesBrendan Rodgers has said that he had a call from former Swan Tommy Craig passing on his admiration for what the Swans are doing
“I’d never spoken to Tommy before in my life but he wanted to ring up and pass on his appreciation for what we were doing and how inspiring it’s been for him,” said Swans boss Rodgers in today’s Western Mail.
“I had a really good chat with Tommy and it made me proud when I put the phone down.
“To think someone like that who has played a big role in Swansea’s history is still looking out for the club and is impressed by the level with which they are playing.
“I am very proud of what we are achieving.
“The players have made me a better manager and hopefully I’ve made them better players – we want to continue to grow together.
“I’ve known of him and seen him for many years in the game.
“He was the assistant to Billy McNeil at Glasgow Celtic for many years when they were successful, and as a coach at Newcastle.
“It was brilliant to listen to his enthusiasm for the game and nice to hear his recollections of Swansea, he loved his time here.
“He is a coach who believes in how we are playing. When you are in the minority and you see someone else doing the same it gives you hope.
“It would be great to get him down here and see the new Swansea City.”
The Swans have never beaten Everton in 14 competitive clashes and Rodgers added“There’s always a first, that’s my outlook
“It’s an incredible stat and shows the level of club Everton are. Make no mistake, Everton are a big club who have resources.
“The team is a real hallmark of what David Moyes has put in place at the club. Whatever team plays and whatever the structure is you know they are going to be very hard to beat.
“I watched the Merseyside derby and they David made six changes, which shows their depth.
“David’s been there 10 years, done a terrific job and knows you need that depth in your squad. When you play against a team like us it’s a draining experience.
“We have invention, and imagination and an attacking philosophy. It’s draining as an opponent because you are chasing the ball and have to concentrate.
“All the positive aspects of our game will need to be in play, our possession game needs to be at a high level.
“Our patience needs to be high and when chances come we need to take them.
“We have a big respect for Everton and their manager, but we always have a great confidence at home.”
