Anthony Wright relishing Youth Cup challenge

Swansea City Under-18s coach Anthony Wright says his side are relishing this evening’s FA Youth Cup showdown with Manchester City (5pm).

The young Swans head to the Academy Stadium for their eagerly anticipated third-round tie against Gareth Taylor’s side, who were runners-up to Liverpool in last season’s competition.

High-flying City are currently eight points clear at the top of Premier League North, and have won each of their last four matches – scoring 16 goals without reply.

That included a commanding 5-0 victory against the Swans when the sides locked horns in the Premier League Cup last month.

Meanwhile, Wright’s side are aiming to end a four-match winless run and book their place in the fourth round of the competition for the second time in three years.

The under-18s coach is under no illusions that his players must be ready and fully concentrated from the first whistle this evening,  but has encouraged them to play to their strengths at the Academy Stadium.

“We understand the task ahead; it’s going to be as tough as it comes,” Wright said.

“They’ve set the benchmark this season, but we’re relishing the challenge and will be ready for it.

“For our boys, it’s going to be a great opportunity. The FA Youth Cup games are the biggest they can play in, and it’s being played just across from the Etihad Stadium.

“We’re going to go there and have a go. We want to do the players and the club proud.

“We must remain fully concentrated throughout the game. They have so much individual quality that can turn any game on its head.

“But we also have good technical players so when we get the ball, we must make sure we use it the right way and demonstrate our own quality.

“If we can a positive result, it would be fantastic for us.”