Steve Cooper | We know what a derby win would mean to our fans

Steve Cooper admits the absence of fans will make for a very different South Wales derby this weekend, but insists that only adds to the desire to give Swansea City supporters something to celebrate.

For the first time in the 108-year history of the fixture there will be no supporters of either side present at Cardiff City Stadium on Saturday.

The Welsh Government’s stance on measures relating to the coronavirus pandemic means fans are not yet able to return to stadia, and means there will be no repeat of the fantastic atmosphere at last season’s pair of derby games.

But, with so many going through hardship due to the impact of Covid-19, Cooper knows just how much joy a derby victory could bring to supporters, even if they cannot attend.

“It will be different in terms of the game and atmosphere,” he said.

“They were electric atmospheres last season, as anyone who was there will tell you, so we can’t shy away from it, it is different.

“That’s why you cannot compare with previous seasons or previous games.

“But is a game that means an awful lot to supporters, it’s one we really want to win and one we want to really commit to and attack.

“It is for the supporters. I want them to see a team working hard and giving their best because football is so important to so many people.

“It will be a perfect chance to give a bit back and we will be committing to that.”