admintopsy-turvy nature of the game.
If these teams had met in this final just 13 years ago, Swansea would have been the fourth-tier outsiders taking on top-flight opposition such have been the contrasting fortunes of the two clubs over recent years.
Giant-killers Bradford, who have already trampled over three English Premier League teams in Arsenal, Wigan Athletic and Aston Villa to book only their second Wembley appearance, are hoping for another upset. Swansea have a one-word reply in the shape of Spanish striker Michu.
Michu is in prolific form with 18 goals in all competitions, including the 15 that have propelled the Welsh side to eighth place in the Premier League, and he is not about to let Bradford get in his way of silverware.
“We are determined not to let the underdog win,” he said on the club website (www.swanseacity.net).
“We have had a fantastic season in the league, so to win a first major trophy for the club as well would make it even better.
“That would also mean European football for us next year, and that has always been a dream of mine.”
Swansea City coach Michael Laudrup says his side should have no concerns about being branded favourites ahead of their meeting with Bradford City in tomorrow’s English League Cup final.
Swansea will be appearing in their first major cup final, but their achievement pales in comparison to that of Bradford, who have eliminated three Premier League sides en route to Wembley Stadium.
League Two Bradford are the first team from the English fourth division to reach the League Cup final since Rochdale in 1962 and Laudrup says Swansea must be prepared to shake off their own underdog mindset as a result.
“I would think if you go back, it’s very rare to see a major final between a small team in the top flight and a team from the lower leagues,” said the Dane.
“When teams from lower down get to the final, it is normally against Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham or Liverpool — like when Birmingham played Arsenal (in 2011).
“This is different because although we are one of the lower teams, we have to accept we are favourites and we must take the initiative in the game.
“We have no problem with that and we accept the majority of people will want Bradford to win as they are the underdogs. — Soccernet.
Online Reporter