Matt Grimes | The double is in the past, we are ready to go again

Matt Grimes insists Swansea City know they start Sunday’s south Wales derby with a clean slate, and that last season’s double will count for nothing when kick-off arrives.

The Swans host Cardiff City in the first derby of the 2022-23 campaign on Sunday, looking to continue a strong recent run in the fixture.

Swansea have lost just one of the last seven fixtures in the 110-year rivalry, scoring 13 goals and conceding just one in that time.

Last season Russell Martin’s side completed the first league double in the derby’s history last term courtesy of a 3-0 home win and a 4-0 victory in the reverse fixture.

But captain Grimes, who will be playing in his seventh south Wales derby on Sunday, knows all too well that past glories will count for nothing when the latest instalment commences at midday.

“I think the thing to remember is that each of these games stand by themselves,” said the Swansea midfielder.

“We will be as prepared for this game as we have been for the last however many games.

“We have to make sure we approach it in the right manner, things have been positive for us up to now and we need to make sure we continue that.

“I don’t think it is a case of them being more motivated to win this time because they lost last year, we are just as motivated to win this game as we were the two last season.

“You cannot look at the past because anything can happen and we have to look to put the best version of ourselves out there come Sunday lunchtime.”