Martinez – the key
Newly promoted, League One champions last year, Swansea are one of the teams to watch this year. It is not unusual to see newly promoted team having excellent first season in Championship, but it is also not unusual to see them being relegated. The key asset of Swansea is certainly manager Martinez, who is probably one of the greatest talents in the country and we were not surprised about the news that Ferguson called him to replace Queiroz as United second man. But Martinez opted for a season in Championship and this experience will certainly only help him to become big name. His team played some great football last year, and we would not be surprised to see them playing in similar style at this level too.
No star players
The biggest advantage of this team is that they do not rely on any particular players. Without stars, Martinez is capable to find excellent solutions for his style for small money. Players that have been important and had lot of games in last season campaign are still in the club. Martinez added Ashley Williams on permanent deal after three months loan from Stockport. He also signed ex-Southend midfielder Mark Gower for free, and three Espanyol players, midfielder Gomez and defenders Bessone and Serran. Fabian Brandy, Manchester United youngster is also in the squad as he continues his loan spell at Swansea.
In
Ashley Williams (£400k, Stockport), Mark Gower (free, Southend), Federico Bessone (free, Espanyol), Albert Serran (£80k, Espanyol), Fabien Brandy (loan, Manchester United), Gomez (loan, Espanyol)
Out
Kevin Austin (free, Chesterfield), Kevin Amankwaah (free, Swindon), Darryl Duffy (free, Bristol Rovers), Darren Way (undisclosed, Yeovil)
Surprise package
It is hard to expect too much from them this year. They do not have too many players that can play on the same level for the season that is very long. But, be sure that Swansea will raise the heads. Their attractive display, attacking football and excellent coach will earn lot of points where you did not expect. Especially at the start of the season they can make surprises with odds against them. After couple of months, they will probably get tired and end in the midfield. We would be really surprised to see them anywhere near the relegation battle.
Our tip: Midtable position
Odds
Bookmaker: Bet365
PROM
PL-OFF
RELEG
