Matt’s in mood to do some Taff-talk
MATT GRIMES admits he has been dreaming about ‘El Taffico’ since the day he walked into Swansea.
The Swans skipper leads his team into a first Welsh derby for five-andhalf years when bitter rivals Cardiff go to the Liberty Stadium for a high noon shoot-out today.
Grimes joined the Swans from Exeter City in 2015 and his biggest derby dust-up to date is the Grecians’ cream tea tear-up with Plymouth.
“I’ve been waiting for years for my chance to play in one of these,” said the English midfielder (right) who has been a key cog in his club’s metronomic start to the season.
“It’s a massive game, one you can’t escape as you’re told about this rivalry as soon as you walk through the doors at Swansea.
“The fans talk about it and you can’t get away from the vibe in the city. All the players will be looking to put on their best football and really show everyone what we can do.
“I’ve played in Exeter against Plymouth and Blackburn against Burnley as well. Any derby is tasty and I think every club has got their team that they want to desperately win against. But this game will have more of an edge to it. I’m looking forward to it.”
Meanwhile, old stager Neil Warnock (right) is determined get the better of newcomer Steve Cooper today – to even the score with his dad.
Cardiff boss Warnock goes into his 25th derby game in 40 years as a boss, while Cooper takes Swansea into his first.
But the pair do have history, of sorts, as Cooper’s father Keith
– the former top referee - crossed paths with the Bluebirds boss.
Warnock said: “He booked me a few times, did Keith.
“But Steve has done really well at Swansea and just because this is his first club derby doesn’t really give me an edge.”
CLASS OF 19: (Clockwise from back left) Brandon Williams, Matej Kovar, Daniel James, James Garner and Mason Greenwood fly to Belgrade