Matt Grimes | We know what is at stake

Captain Matt Grimes says every Swansea City player is aware of the responsibility they will carry for supporters and the city itself in today’s South Wales derby (12pm).

The 108th instalment of the rivalry between Swansea City and Cardiff City will take place at the Liberty Stadium at lunchtime, and mark the first time the sides have met in more than five-and-a-half years.

Such has been the timespan since Swansea’s 3-0 win in February 2014, only four players across the two squads have previous experience of the fixture.

But, as midfielder Grimes explains, that doesn’t mean that the players are immune to the demands and expectations of such a special fixture.

“It’s not just a game for the players, but this is massive for the fans and everyone in the city,” he said.

“We have the responsibility on our shoulders to deliver something. Every player should and will thrive on that.

 “There’s no getting away from how big a game it is. We will prepare for it in the same way as any other, but we know there will be more of an edge with both teams really wanting to win.

“We just hope we can do enough on the day.

 “As a footballer, these are the games you dream of playing in. We just have to be confident and use Tuesday’s game as fuel.

“Hopefully, we can give the fans something to shout about and we know what it means to them and Swansea as a whole.

 “I think a good result would reignite our season. We’ve had a disappointing run of results – especially at home – so it could be the perfect game to kick-start us again.

“We’re determined to get three points and are looking forward to the challenge.”

This will be Grimes’ own derby bow, having joined Swansea in January of 2015.

But he admits the importance of the derby has not been lost on him during the intervening years when the fixture has not been held due to the clubs being in different divisions.

 “As soon as you arrive at Swansea City, you are made very aware of the significance of this fixture,” he added.

“I’ve been waiting three-and-a-half years for my chance to play in one of these games. It’s a massive game in which the players will be looking to produce their best football and show what we can do.

 “You learn from the more experienced players just how much it means. “The fans talk about it and you can’t get away from the vibe in the city.”