I think most of us have got over the disappointment of conceding that last gasp equalizer against Chelsea on Tuesday and can reflect that it was another good performance and a point gained in our attempt to avoid relegation. However since Tuesday the club has suffered a few setbacks which while nothing to fundamentally affect the club’s future, they are at the very least disappointing.
Transfer Deadline Day
I’m not sure what to say about our failure to sign Ryan Bennett on deadline day. I’d never heard of him and a deal of up to £3M seems a hell of a lot to pay for a player we were going to loan back for the rest of the season. What is clear however is that Brendan wanted him and saw his acquisition as a key part of building for next season and beyond.
I’m not sure of exactly what happened but a deal was obviously close given he was travelling down to Swansea when he got the call to go to Norwich. Did we get gazumped by Norwich or did the Board get cold feet? Either way it’s clear that Brendan was disappointed and you can see this by the quotes in the press from a man who is always very diplomatic about choosing his words:
“Ryan Bennett was someone I felt would be good value for the club because he is a terrific player who I see being a big talent in the future.”
“We have watched Ryan a number of times over a number of months, but they (meaning the Board) are well within their rights if they feel the deal is too rich, and it’s history now.”
Although he has put on a brave, professional face I just hope that he doesn’t see it as a case of the Board not matching his ambition for the club. Shades of Martinez perhaps? I hope not but will feel happier when we get confirmation through that he’s signed his new contract.
Swansea Reserves 0 Arsenal Reserves 2
The result was irrelevant of course. This was all about Bodde damaging his other knee. We’ll have to await the result but the fact he has returned to Holland suggests it’s unlikely to be good news. I really feel for you mate and hope it’s not the end. I think it might be though as how physically and mentally you can come back from yet another injury I don’t know. Prove me wrong Ferrie – please.
Swansea Youth 1 Manchester United Youth 5
The kids have done brilliantly and they’ve certainly captured the public’s imagination with over 4,000 turning up at a freezing Liberty on Thursday night to support them. The result shows the gulf in class though and there is a long way to go and I hope the club will strive for academy status in the near future.
Yes it’s been a tough week but an historical one as well I imagine. When have Swansea City sides ever played against the likes of Chelsea; Arsenal and Manchester United all in the space of three days? It shows how far we’ve come as a club and I’m sure we’ll continue to improve regardless of the setbacks.