Gareth Vincent: As the dust settles, how does it feel to have won promotion and to have done it the way you did?

ROBERTO MARTINEZ: It's a great feeling after a very complete season.

I always get excited looking back at the golden years of Swansea City and I'm very proud that the players have written their own chapter in that golden history. We won the title, which only one club can do, and we did it playing good football. We also did it with a young squad which has its best years ahead, so the whole thing excites me. I'm very proud of that group of players.

GV: Did you really think things could go this well, this quickly when you hung up the boots last year?

RM: You never set targets for you or your team. You believe in a certain way to play and then you see how far you can go. After the friendly against Levante here and the first league game at Oldham, you could see we had the talent in the squad. It was just a matter then of how consistent we could be. We set our standards behind the scenes and it really paid off.

GV: Your signings have almost invariably come off. Is talent spotting one of your big strengths as a manager?

RM: When you know what you need to improve the squad it's a huge advantage. You get names thrown at you on a daily basis and 90 per cent of them are fantastic players for this level. But when you look for players who can come and play for Swansea, you reduce that group a lot. It's very hard to play for Swansea, that's something I found as a player. Also, we've got a very good group of players already, so whoever comes in needs to bring something different. Whoever comes in needs to have character and a hunger for success and they need to be prepared to work for everyone else. They need to understand that we are a family club. I really enjoy seeing possible Swansea players and it's an area where Kevin Reeves has been fantastic as well.

GV: Why is it hard to play for Swansea?

RM: Because you're expected to win every single game and that only happens at the big clubs. As a player, you can either cope with that or you can't. Every time we've lost a game this season it's been the end of the world. We lost in the Carling Cup against Reading in extra time and everyone was disappointed.

GV: Looking back, the start was the only slightly difficult period of the season. Did it take the new faces time to settle in?

RM: I'd say it took the group time to gel because we had 10 new players. There are partnerships on the pitch and small details which come when you have been playing together for a long time can win and lose games. The new signings had an impact with their individual ability, but as a team you need time to settle and work out what's needed.

GV: After you lost at Leeds, you drew at home to Brighton, which was the start of the long run featuring just one defeat which was key. What changed after Leeds?

RM: Before Leeds, we had a very good platform of performances but didn't get the rewards in terms of results. Leeds was disappointing because we weren't ourselves. The draw at home to Brighton was a completely different challenge because away from home teams will try to match you and play face to face, but here they will come and try to be organised. They set out to be very hard to break down and look to waste time. In the next game, at home to Swindon, you saw the reaction from the team. They really got together that day and the winning mentality started there. There was also the second half at Cheltenham, before we went to Leeds. Those four games saw a metamorphosis, where a squad of players with great talent and hopes became a very effective and strong football team.

GV: What was the strongest department of your team, defence, midfield or attack?

RM: I would say the personality we showed coming back from a goal behind on a number of occasions was our strength, not any area of the pitch. Going behind at places like Gillingham and Hartlepool and stamping our authority showed our character.

GV: Who would be your player of the year?

RM: I would pick a group of 10 players. That's the six nominees for the award (Jason Scotland, Ferrie Bodde, Leon Britton, Garry Monk, Angel Rangel and Dorus de Vries) plus Andy Robinson, Paul Anderson and Tom Butler, who were all at the top of their games for long periods. And then there's Darren Pratley as well.

GV: What was the best performance of the season?

RM: That's a hard one. In games where things went our way, I would mention Leyton Orient (away), Northampton (home) and Crewe (home). We only beat Crewe 2-1, but it was a 10-0 performance. We were outstanding in other games where we had to adapt to another role, like Carlisle (home), Gillingham (home) and Leeds (home).

GV: And the worst?

RM: Leeds away. We weren't ourselves for 60 minutes. When we went a goal down we came out of our shell, but we had created our own problems by then. We didn't perform as we expected to up there. Yeovil at home was the same but there was a big excuse because it's hard to perform after you've got over the line. And against Millwall at home we played the occasion again and gave too much away.

GV: What was the best goal of the season?

RM: As an individual finish, Jason Scotland against Bristol Rovers at home. Then there's Guillem Bauza's goal at Luton. But the goal that best describes us was Paul Anderson at Leyton Orient. The ball comes out quickly from Dorus, it goes to Ando and he has a two-v-one so he comes back out. Then it comes back to the right-hand side, Ando's got a one-v-one and he goes through and scores.

GV: Was Nottingham Forest's promotion a surprise?

RM: It was after they lost at Doncaster (in late March). After that it wasn't a question of what Forest had to do to get promoted, it was down to what Carlisle and Doncaster didn't do. In football you don't get something because you don't deserve it, and Forest deserve to be up. But in the last third of the season Doncaster and Carlisle didn't continue the level of performance they had showed earlier on. Without the Leeds cloud, I don't think both those teams would have failed. One team can always be affected because of an injury or a couple of sending offs, but you don't normally see that happen to two teams.

GV: Who's going to win the play-offs?

RM: It's a lottery, but looking at form it has to be Southend or Leeds. Then you look at the extra push the club can give you and I think Leeds have the ingredients to get promoted.

GV: How much has the Leeds saga marred your success this year?

RM: Now that everything's finished, only a little bit. It really tested the character of the boys in certain periods. They couldn't relax because the 15 points were playing on their minds. But we aimed to win the championship assuming Leeds would get all their points back and we achieved that. The only real disappointment was not being able to celebrate in front of our home crowd. That's a shame because as a player you work hard for those moments, and if you are fortunate you will do it once in your career. If you're very fortunate you'll do it twice. Unfortunately, that was taken away from our players.

GV: The focus now shifts towards the Championship. How hard is it going to be?

RM: It's going to be a very hard challenge but a very enjoyable one too. That's where we want to be and I think the whole club is ready. By that I mean the players, the people in the office, the fans, the board, the staff. Everyone is ready for the next challenge.

Tom Butler has become the fourth member of Swansea City's title-winning squad to sign a new contract.

The former Sunderland man has penned a performance-related deal similar to those agree by Owain Tudur Jones, Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald.

Butler made 42 league appearances this season - including 29 starts - as he proved a useful option out wide for manager Roberto Martinez.

The midfielder chipped in with six goals during the campaign, his best ever return in what was arguably his most successful year in senior football.

"Tom has been a very consistent performer this season," said Martinez. "He had his best campaign for the club last season and to have someone who can play on the left or right with the same effectiveness is a huge bonus and asset.

"Tom is desperate to return to the level (Premier League) he reached with Sunderland and I'm delighted he'll be trying to do that with Swansea City.

"He's a better and more mature player than when he first arrived at the club. He's extremely talented and full of skill - we've all seen that this season.

"I've no doubt that Tom is a player of Premier League standard and I'm delighted he's committed himself to the club."

MacDonald, Tate and Tudur Jones committed their futures to Swansea this week, while captain Garry Monk, Kevin Austin, Dennis Lawrence and Kristian O'Leary are all considering one-year deals after making enough appearances last season to trigger automatic offers.

Meanwhile, Martinez has confirmed that defender Steve Watt will be leaving Swansea.

The former Chelsea centre-half signed at the Liberty Stadium in January, 2006, on an 18-month deal.

Martinez gave him a one-year extension last season before loaning him out to Inverness.

But he made just one league cup appearance for the Scottish outfit.

Chris Barney

Crewe keeper Owain fon Williams is being touted as a potential Swansea City target amid doubts over the future of David Knight.

Reserve stopper Knight is out of contract this summer and as yet there is no news of whether he will be kept on.

And Anglesey-born Wales Under-21 cap fon Williams is being mentioned as a possible replacement if Knight departs.

The 6ft 4in 20-year-old is yet to make a first-team appearance at Crewe, where he is out of contract this summer.

But he is highly rated and would fit the bill as Swansea look to add young Welsh talent to their squad wherever possible.

Former Swansea target Keigan Parker, meantime, is available on a free after being released by Blackpool.

But chairman Huw Jenkins has said a fresh move for the pacy striker is unlikely.

Gareth Vincent

Roberto Martinez has urged Andy Robinson to stay at Swansea City for the good of his career as doubts grow over the midfielder's future.

With new deals for his fellow out-of-contract stars being announced all the time, Robinson looks to be the only big-name player who could leave the Liberty Stadium this summer.

Talks over a new agreement between Robinson's agent, Neil Sang, and Swansea chiefs are said to have stalled.

The Scouse star is free to speak to other clubs about a free transfer and seems certain to attract interest having been a target for the likes of Cardiff and Stoke in the past.

But Martinez is remaining optimistic about the chances of Robinson being part of Swansea's Championship challenge.

"Swansea City have made it quite clear that we want Andy to stay and Andy has also made it clear that he wants to stay," Martinez said.

"I'm sure his agent is talking to other clubs, but I would like to think that Andy isn't.

"No club knows Andy like we do and he doesn't know any club the way he knows us.

"He has a huge new challenge ahead of him in the Championship and I know exactly what he needs next season to make sure he closes in on his dream of playing Premier League football.

"But it's his decision. We will never try to sign players who are not committed to the club and he must sign for the right reasons."

Robinson gets married this summer, when former team-mate Lee Trundle will be best man. Martinez is likely to point to Trundle's relative struggle to win over Bristol City fans since he left Swansea as he tries to convince Robinson to stay.

"I will be delighted to see someone who came here when we were in League Two go on to be a very important player at Championship level," the Spaniard added.

"Andy's best years are still ahead of him and I'm hopeful he'll spend them with us.

"Negotiations can take longer than you would hope, but Andy has to be happy and so do we. Hopefully, it will all be sorted before the end of May."

Swansea, meantime, say season-ticket holders will receive renewal application forms in the next few days.

Merchandise celebrating the club's promotion to the Championship is available in the club shop.

ROBERTO MARTINEZ has hailed Tom Butler as “Premiership class” after the winger signed a new long-term contract at Swansea City.

The Irishman has become the latest player to commit his future to Swansea City as the feel-good factor continues at the League One champions.

Butler has already played in the Premiership 19 times for Sunderland, the club he joined as a trainee. And, with his manager repeatedly backing him to do so, it is a level he is desperate to return to.

As the Swans’ title-winning season progressed, Martinez repeatedly referred to Butler as a player who already belongs in the Championship. But, with promotion now secured, the Spaniard believes the tricky winger should be aiming even higher.

Butler’s new deal, which is performance related in accordance with Martinez’s preferred contract policy, will come as a big boost for Swans fans. And his manager was quick to highlight just how much of an asset the 27-year-old is.

“I’ve no doubt that Tom is a player of Premiership standard,” he beamed. “I’m delighted he’s committed himself to the club.”

“Tom is desperate to return to the level (Premiership) he reached with Sunderland and I’m delighted he’ll be trying to do that with Swansea City.”

Butler joined the Swans in August 2006, signing for an undisclosed fee from Hartlepool. He initially struggled under Kenny Jackett but Martinez’s arrival has given the lively winger a new lease of life.

Playing on either the left or right flank, he has been a regular for the Spaniard this season, scoring six goals in the process.

His versatility was certainly one reason Martinez was keen to extend Butler’s stay in South Wales.

“He has been a very consistent performer this season,” Martinez said. “He had his best campaign for the club last season and to have someone who can play on the left or right with the same effectiveness is a huge bonus and asset.

“He’s a better and more mature player than when he first arrived at the club. He’s extremely talented and full of skill – we’ve all seen it this season.”

With the futures of Andy Robinson and Paul Anderson still in the balance, it was important Martinez tied at least one of his wingers down. The task now is to make sure the other two follow suit.

Swans chairman Huw Jenkins has already said negotiations are under way to extend Anderson’s loan from Liverpool. And discussions over a new deal for Robinson have been “ongoing” for weeks now.

Martinez has already said he wants them both at the Liberty next season. But, if for some reason either deal does fall through, Butler’s decision to put pen to paper will be even more important.

The twice-capped Republic of Ireland international joins vice-captain Alan Tate and Welsh duo Shaun MacDonald and Owain Tudur Jones in signing a new long-term deal at the Liberty Stadium.

And, while Garry Monk, Dennis Lawrence, Kristian O’Leary and Kevin Austin haven’t signed yet, the experienced quartet have also been offered one-year contract extensions.

All four players made enough appearances this season to trigger clauses in their contracts for a new deal. And, while the automatic extension is for just one year, it is understood club captain Monk is actually discussing a longer deal with the club.

One man who won’t be at the club next season is former Chelsea defender Stephen Watt. After spending the season on loan at Scottish side Inverness Caledonian Thistle, the 23-year-old has been released.

Swansea City are close to completing a record-equalling deal to sign Ashley Williams on a permanent basis.

Swansea are understood to have settled on a fee in the region of £350,000 for the 24-year-old defender when they took him on loan from Stockport in March.

And they have also agreed personal terms with Williams, who is expected to put pen to paper on a long-term Swansea deal in the next week.

The deal for the Welsh international will equal the record fee paid out in Swansea history, for Liverpool defender Colin Irwin back in 1981.

"It's just a matter of sitting down with Ashley and getting the contract signed," said Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins. "We're confident that will be done in the near future."

Williams was forced to play a bit-part role after joining Swansea's promotion push late on, starting just three games as Roberto Martinez opted to keep faith with the players who had carried the club to the brink of the Championship.

But the former Stockport captain is highly regarded at the Liberty Stadium and is expected to play a central role when Swansea do battle in the Championship next season.

Jenkins, meanwhile, has confirmed that the club are in talks with Liverpool in a bid to bring Paul Anderson back to Wales next term whether on a second loan or in a permanent deal.

"We are speaking to them to see what can be done," he said.

Anderson, 19, was a huge hit at the Liberty this season after joining on a year-long loan.

Wales international Owain Tudur Jones has secured his long-term future at Swansea City.

The League One champions have agreed a performance-related deal with Tudur Jones, with the Evening Post understanding it is at least a two-year contract.

Tudur Jones, who has battled with injury for the past 16 months, has joined Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald in extending their stay at the Liberty Stadium.

The 23-year-old ex-Bangor City midfielder returned to action in Swansea's victory at Bristol Rovers on March 18, and featured in another seven league matches before making his Wales debut in the 2-0 win in Luxembourg.

Tudur Jones, who has also won Wales Under-21s caps, signed for Swansea at the start of the 2005-06 season for just £5,000 from Welsh Premier League side Bangor after a successful trial period.

A serious knee injury eventually forced him to travel to America to go under the knife of world-renowned surgeon Dr Richard Steadman - the same surgeon who operated on Michael Owen, Alan Shearer and Ronaldo.

Defenders Dennis Lawrence, Kevin Austin, Garry Monk and midfielder Kristian O'Leary have also been offered new one-year contracts after making enough appearances last season to trigger new deals.

Manager Roberto Martinez was delighted to seal the signature of a man he has labelled a future Wales captain.

"It was great to see Owain finish the season on such a positive note," said the Spaniard. "It was pleasing for everyone to see him enjoying his football and challenging for a place again after what has been a very difficult time for him with such a long-term injury.

"But he's come through a more mature person and I'm convinced it will help him to become a better, stronger player and character on the pitch.

"We are all delighted he has committed his future to Swansea City and I'm sure he has a very successful club and country career ahead of him."

Swansea City are close to completing a record-equalling deal to sign Ashley Williams on a permanent basis.

Swansea are understood to have settled on a fee in the region of £350,000 for the 24-year-old defender when they took him on loan from Stockport in March.

And they have also agreed personal terms with Williams, who is expected to put pen to paper on a long-term Swansea deal in the next week.

The deal for the Welsh international will equal the record fee paid out in Swansea history, for Liverpool defender Colin Irwin back in 1981.

"It's just a matter of sitting down with Ashley and getting the contract signed," said Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins. "We're confident that will be done in the near future."

Williams was forced to play a bit-part role after joining Swansea's promotion push late on, starting just three games as Roberto Martinez opted to keep faith with the players who had carried the club to the brink of the Championship.

But the former Stockport captain is highly regarded at the Liberty Stadium and is expected to play a central role when Swansea do battle in the Championship next season.

Jenkins, meanwhile, has confirmed that the club are in talks with Liverpool in a bid to bring Paul Anderson back to Wales next term whether on a second loan or in a permanent deal.

"We are speaking to them to see what can be done," he said.

Anderson, 19, was a huge hit at the Liberty this season after joining on a year-long loan.

Now that the final ball has been kicked by Swansea City, it's time to look back on a season that has oozed success.

Promotion to the Championship in Roberto Martinez's first full season in charge signalled a superb start to life in management for the Spaniard.

Their achievement was affected by the farce surrounding the delay in confirming their champion status, a situation which should never have happened.

And despite their league dominance, Swansea have suffered a few blips here and there.

So, with the curtain drawn on the season, I look back on the thrills and spills of 2007-08.

POSITIVES

No guessing on the major positive - promotion was always the key focus at the Liberty Stadium under Roberto, but to become champions in the style they did was hugely rewarding. Swansea have kept the ball on the deck this season and showed that a footballing team can be successful in League One. Under Kenny Jackett they utilised the long ball approach, but this team looks ultimately comfortable with Roberto's plan. It has also earned the club a reputation as a team that loves to play the beautiful game, which is always useful when you're trying to attract new players.

Jason Scotland - 29 goals for £25,000. The bargain of the season and one who can thrive in the Championship. No doubt a few more people are aware of Jason after his superb debut season in English football, and he will be a marked man next season.

Bargain hunt - Roberto scouted the continent for talent and managed to bring in quality players for next to nothing. Scotland was a major coup while the likes of Dorus de Vries, Angel Rangel, Ferrie Bodde, Guillem Bauza and Paul Anderson pushed Swansea to a different level.

Joe Allen - or rather his performance against Reading in the Carling Cup. Against Premier League opposition the little midfielder showed great maturity and ran the game. Swansea lost, but Allen gained a lot from that experience.

NEGATIVES

Cup failures - Losing to Havant & Waterlooville in the FA Cup was a disaster. A money-spinning trip to Liverpool awaited the winners, and Swansea must have lost out on a £500,000 pay day while their supporters were robbed of a trip to Anfield. Another trip they missed out on was Wembley. A penalty shoot-out defeat to MK Dons ended hopes of a day out in London, while the FAW Premier Cup setback to Newport County was also very disappointing. In the Carling Cup, Swansea had a great chance to claim a Premier League scalp in Reading - especially as they were down to 10 men - but they missed the boat.

Darryl Duffy - After a great loan spell, Duffy has struggled to justify his £200,000 price tag. I had high hopes for him, but Lee Trundle's departure and a change in tactics could have affected him. Whether or not he is at the club next season will probably depend on whether Swansea can find a new striker.

League One trophy - a complete farce. How Swansea were denied to celebrate their deserved success is beyond me. They were the best team in League One, finished top but couldn't celebrate at the Liberty because of the whole Leeds United scenario. It left a bitter taste after a sweet season.

JOB WELL DONE

Midfield - No matter what combination Roberto sent out, his midfield always seemed to have the grasp of the game. Andy Robinson was excellent, so was Leon Britton while Darren Pratley has improved greatly throughout the season. He started off running to the touchline and corner flags, but after Christmas he chipped in with a number of goals. Ferrie Bodde has been outstanding but he does have to control his discipline. You can't afford to miss five or six games a season through indiscipline, and he would have been a very strong candidate for player of the year if he'd cooled down a little. Paul Anderson and Tom Butler also had very good seasons. They both brought pace and a directness for Swansea, but they do need to improve on their crossing.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Defence - I still feel Swansea need to get in another centre-half. Garry Monk has been superb this season, but when he has been unavailable nobody has really taken the opportunity. Alan Tate fares much better when he is alongside Monk than Dennis Lawrence, but another centre-half should be on the shopping list as the club enters the Championship.

Between the sticks - Dorus de Vries has played every league game this season, which is quite rare these days. The Dutchman, though, has not been pushed to work for his place. No disrespect to young David Knight, the lad is still cutting his teeth, but Roberto needs stiffer competition. Perhaps someone with more experience would give de Vries a run for his money.

MY PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Jason Scotland - who else? His goals have sent Swansea soaring to the Championship.

CLUBMAN

Kristian O'Leary - Doesn't moan and complain when he is not in the team and can play in defence and midfield. Turned down a three-year deal with Cheltenham to stay at his beloved Swansea. Every club needs a Kristian O'Leary.

END OF TERM MARK

A - Full marks for the league campaign but cup failures brought it down a notch. Everyone deserves a pat on the back for winning League One by a 10-point margin.

That's it for this season - thanks for reading and your support throughout the campaign. Have a great summer. See you in the Championship.

Owain Tudur Jones has followed Swansea team-mates Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald in agreeing a new contract with the Championship new boys.

The once-capped Wales midfielder, 23, has suffered with serious knee and ankle injuries since joining from Welsh Premier side Bangor in July 2005.

Despite playing eight games this season he has been given a year extension.

"I'm delighted to get that further 12 months at a special time for the club. It's a big boost for me," Jones said.

"I'm really looking forward to pre-season training where it's a chance for me to get fit and to try and get myself to the level of the rest of the boys.

"It's an exciting time for the club and to be part of that is a big thing.

"All I can do is get myself as fit as possible, try and impress the manager [Roberto Martinez] on a daily basis and if I do that then I'm giving myself a chance to progress my career and stay with this club as long as possible."

Jones needed the intervention of renowned American knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman to cure a career-threatening injury that wrecked his 2006/7 season.

After recovering from that set-back, Jones then fractured his ankle last autumn but again fought back to fitness.

His reward was a long-delayed first Wales cap, coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 friendly win away to Luxembourg last March.

Jones was then able to play his part in the latter end of the season, as Swansea marched to the League One title and promotion to the Championship.

"It's been tough. It hasn't been an easy couple of years but I've learnt to deal with it," Jones added.

"To get over something like this stands you in good stead, you know that you can deal with anything that happens to you in your football career.

"It's a case now of not dwelling on the injuries, it's about moving on and looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Swansea club captain Garry Monk, Kristian O'Leary, Kevin Austin and Dennis Lawrence have all been offered new one-year contracts after making enough appearances last season to trigger new deals.

CLUB captain Garry Monk heads the list of seven Swansea City players to be offered new contracts as Roberto Martinez prepares his squad for life in the Championship.

Monk is one of four experienced campaigners to be offered one-year contract extensions, while Wales international Owain Tudur Jones, vice-captain Alan Tate and Wales U21 starlet Shaun MacDonald have all agreed new long-term deals.

Monk, along with Dennis Lawrence, Kevin Austin and Kristian O’Leary, has played enough games this season to trigger his clause for a new deal.

But, while all four are entitled to automatic extensions, the skipper’s signature is considered to be the most important.

The 29-year-old has led by example during the Swans’ title-winning campaign. Such is his influence in the camp, that his fellow team-mates voted for Monk as the players’ player of the year at the club’s end-of-season awards dinner.

Martinez has spoken on a number of occasions about how important his captain has been in securing promotion this season. And the Spaniard will undoubtedly be keen for Monk to play an equally pivotal role in the Championship.

Whether or not Austin, Lawrence and O’Leary feature much next season remains to be seen. But the club had to offer them new deals.

That was not the case for Tudur Jones. And, after two seasons ravaged by injury, there was no certainty Martinez would give him a new contract.

But the Spaniard has regularly referred to the Bangor City product as “the future captain of Wales”. And, like Tate and MacDonald, it is understood Tudur Jones will now be with Swansea until at least 2010.

The trio have all signed performance-based deals and Martinez was clearly delighted to see them extend their stays.

Martinez was particularly happy for Tudur Jones. And, with his troublesome knee injury finally healed, the 23-year-old is expected to shine next season.

“It was great to see Owain finish the season on such a positive note,” Martinez said. “It was pleasing for everyone to see him enjoying his football and challenging for a place again after what has been a very difficult time with such a long-term injury.

“But he's come through a more mature person and I'm convinced it will help him to become a better, stronger player and character on the pitch.

“We are all delighted he has committed his future to Swansea City and I’m sure he has a very successful club and country career ahead of him. Owain is going to be Wales’ senior captain in the future.”

As for Tate and MacDonald, Martinez continued: “Shaun has made huge progress behind the scenes; development which was clearly evident in the last 20 minutes he played at Brighton on Saturday.

“He’s worked really hard on a daily basis to improve his technique and strength. He has a bright future ahead of him and we are delighted that future will be with Swansea City.”

He added: “Alan is one of those players who has been through every emotion possible with the club and is part of a core of players who know exactly what it takes to play for Swansea City.

“He's worked very hard to play Championship football and we are delighted he'll be doing that with Swansea City.”

With seven offers now either on the table or safely signed, Martinez will turn his attentions to the out-of-contract trio of Andy Robinson, Tom Butler and Guillem Bauza.

Bauza and Butler have both voiced their intentions to stay and the pair are expected to sign on soon. Robinson has echoed those sentiments but negotiations for his new deal are still said to be “ongoing”.

Irrespective of what happens to Robinson, one player that does look set to leave the Liberty is Darryl Duffy. The Scotsman has struggled to find his feet after finally agreeing to a £200,000 permanent transfer last summer. And, with Bristol Rovers said to be interested, Martinez has admitted it might be time for the striker to find a new challenge.

Imagine a coronation without a crown, or a wedding without a ring.

Doesn't work, does it? And nor does a promotion party without a trophy.
For sure, it is hard to think of a football club being treated with more contempt than Swansea City in recent weeks.

The club have had an outstanding season, one of the most triumphant in their history.

They won the League One title by 10 clear points, with the rest left to argue about who comes second.

Yet the pedants who run the Football League contrived to blight Swansea's moment of glory.

First, with Leeds's appeal against a 15-point deduction pending, they refused to confirm the promotion of Roberto Martinez's team.

Then they declined to allow them to parade the League One trophy around the Liberty Stadium after the 4-1 beating of Leyton Orient. Close on 18,000 fans were thus cheated of seeing the players holding the silverware aloft.

And the subsequent open-top bus parade through the city was also trophy-less, unless you count the cardboard versions of the prize that were doing the rounds that day.

These things matter.

Swansea City have won only four league titles in the 96 years since they were formed. In the 50 years after 1949 there was nothing on that front.

Successive generations of fans passed through the Vetch without clapping their eyes on a Swans player raising league silverware in the air.

Around 850 of them were at Brighton last weekend when Martinez's men were finally confirmed as champions - but how much better would it have been if the coronation had taken place at the Liberty the week before?

I'm still unclear as to why it took so long for the Leeds appeal decision to be made public.

Would it have made a big difference if the Yorkshire club had been told weeks ago that they had failed to overturn the 15-point penalty imposed on them last summer?

There have been suggestions that Swansea City should be re-presented with the League One trophy at their first home Championship game next season. It would be a way of making sure the fans were able to honour the players and celebrate the success.

But another school of thought is that you have to move on and the sole focus should be on making a mark in the Championship, not trying to revel in the glory of the previous season.

I'm in the latter camp.

The Swans were shabbily treated in a way that the football authorities would never dare handle, say, a Manchester United or a Chelsea.

And the very least they should get is a letter of apology to them and their supporters for the way their celebrations were disrupted.

But then it will be time to look forward.

Roberto Martinez has hinted that Darryl Duffy is on the way out of Swansea City amid reported interest from Bristol Rovers.

The Scottish speedster has endured a difficult season at Swansea following a £200,000 move from Hull last summer and may now be sold on.

Duffy, 24, scored five goals in five starts for Swansea during a profitable loan spell at the back end of 2006-07.

But he failed to hit those heights after returning to Wales on a permanent basis, netting just twice during a frustrating campaign.

Jason Scotland's partner at the start of the season, Duffy soon found himself playing a support role and finished up frozen out altogether because Swansea did not want to trigger an appearance clause in the deal with Hull which would have left them having to fork out another £100,000.

Now Rovers, who finished in lower mid-table, are among a clutch of League One sides believed to be keen on the former Rangers man.

"There has been some interest in Darryl from a couple of teams in League One and we are going to study all the options," Martinez said.

"Sometimes it's important you realise that for the benefit of the player and Swansea City, you need a new challenge.

"But nothing is going to be done or settled until we have got a clear situation on the table, and there's nothing concrete at the moment."

Duffy's struggle was arguably the disappointment of a glittering campaign at the Liberty, particularly after that spectacular loan.

Despite his travails, Swansea are likely to want to recoup much of the money they spent on Duffy, who still has two years to run on his Liberty contract.

"We all know Darryl's a goalscorer, but probably the pattern we've played didn't go in his favour," Martinez added.

"We've been delighted with his attitude, but playing alongside Lee Trundle got the best out of him and since he left it's been hard for Darryl to be himself."

Roberto Martinez has begun building Swansea City's Championship squad by securing Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald on new long-term contracts.

The out-of-contract pair have signed performance-related deals with Swansea.

Swans boss Martinez said: "Shaun has made huge progress behind the scenes while Alan has worked very hard to play Championship football."

The club are also in talks with out-of-contract players Andy Robinson, Owain Tudur Jones and Tom Butler.

Captain Garry Monk and Dennis Lawrence are entitled to new deals after playing enough games in Swansea's League One title-winning campaign to trigger an automatic extension.

Spanish striker Guillem Bauza is expected to get a new Liberty Stadium deal while defenders Kevin Austin, Kristian O'Leary, and Steven Watt and goalkeeper David Knight are also out of contract.

Wales international defender Ashley Williams is expected to make his loan deal from Stockport County permanent in the summer and complete a £250,000 transfer.

Martinez is also weighing up bids for loan duo Paul Anderson and Febian Brandy but he is delighted to secure vice-captain Tate and teenage midfielder MacDonald.

Former Manchester United trainee Tate was in the Swansea team that nearly lost its Football League status in 2003, as Martinez acknowledged: "Alan is one of those players who has been through every emotion possible with the club.

"He is part of a core of players who know exactly what it takes to play for Swansea City.

"Alan is not only versatile, but he's got a winning mentality and never gets affected by any occasion in football.

"And last season was an important one for Shaun, even though he hasn't been in the limelight like some of the other players.

"He has worked really hard on a daily basis to improve his technique and strength.

"Shaun has matured and his body is finally ready to cope with the demands of professional football on a regular basis.

"I think people forget sometimes that he is still only 19. He has a bright future ahead of him and we are delighted that future will be with Swansea City.''

Wales Under-21 international MacDonald enjoyed his first league appearance of the season at Brighton on Saturday as he set-up fellow sub Brandy for the winner at the Withdean Stadium.

PREMIERSHIP football or an immediate return to League One; no-one knows what fate awaits whoever gets promoted as League One champions.

With nine of the last 10 teams to win the league tasting either relegation or at least the play-offs, if not promotion, during their first two seasons in the Championship, it certainly seems to be an all-or-nothing progression.

And, as they make their way back to the second tier of English football next season, Swansea City will undoubtedly be looking to follow the likes of Fulham, Watford and Wigan. Within two years all three of them were sampling the Premiership high life.

At the other end of the spectrum the Swans will be desperate to reverse a trend that has seen their last three predecessors make swift returns to League One.

Admittedly only one (Colchester) of the other six teams to be promoted in those years has been relegated as well. But it’s still a cause for concern.

There is an important lesson for Swansea to learn from Luton, Southend and Scunthorpe, though. If one striker gets you to the Championship, relying on him the following season could be a grave mistake.

First it was Luton’s Steve Howard, then Southend’s Freddy Eastwood and finally Scunthorpe had Billy Sharp.

All three were a huge success in League One. But when either they left or their goals dried up, the clubs had a huge hole to fill.

In all three cases they couldn’t cope. You need goals throughout the team to survive in the Championship.

Fortunately that has been a key aspect of the Swans’ success this season. And, while Jason Scotland’s 29 goals were vitally important, he was just one of four players to reach double figures as the Swans notched up more than 100 goals this season.

Roberto Martinez has a desire to have attacking threats throughout his team. That’s not a policy he is likely to change and Swans should avoid falling into the same trap as predecessors.

If avoiding a repeat of Southend and Scunthorpe’s immediate returns to League One is the short-term aim, following the paths set out by Wigan and Fulham has to be the long-term one.

Both teams had secured promotion to the Premiership within two seasons of winning League One. And, for the time being at least in Fulham’s case, that is where they have remained.

But there is one big difference between the job Martinez must do and the tasks faced by Kevin Keegan (Fulham) and Paul Jewell (Wigan) when they won promotion. While the Swansea board is likely to back Martinez in the transfer market, it will be on a much smaller scale.

He certainly won’t be able to splash £4m like Keegan did on the pair of Louis Saha and Karlheinz Riedle or the combined £3m Jewell spent on Jason Roberts and Nathan Ellington.

So with spending his way to the Premiership out of the question, Martinez must find a middle ground. Watford’s shock promotion in 1999 fits the bill.

When the Hornets finished fifth in their first season after promotion it was a superb achievement. But few people backed them to go on and win the play-offs.

As they stunned Bolton 2-0, that is precisely what happened, though. But, if this was the blueprint for success, no-one has been able to copy it since then.

Graham Taylor spent shrewdly and relied on players who had come through the ranks to get his team through the season. It worked superbly, but it looks unlikely a team will ever be able to do the same again.

The Championship has changed so much since then and, with so much more money involved, the competition is too fierce. Bristol City have come close this season, but even they spent £1m on Lee Trundle.

As Martinez has already alluded to, consolidation is the key next season. That is where Plymouth come into the equation.

The Pilgrims may not be the most glamorous example to follow. But, for next season at least, they are a good one nonetheless.

They have never spent big and they have always had realistic ambitions for life in the Championship. Getting there was a momentous achievement, staying there was treated as a much better one.

That, for now, should be the same for Swansea. Martinez and his squad are good enough, but they must be given time to adapt.

No-one knows which path the Swans will follow. But, if recent history is anything to go by, fans should prepare for a battle and just hope it’s for promotion not relegation.

SWANSEA’S Championship campaign has been boosted by the news that Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald have signed new long-term contracts with the club.

The pair, who were both out of contract this summer, have agreed to performance-related deals.

Roberto Martinez has begun building Swansea City's Championship squad by securing Alan Tate and Shaun MacDonald on new long-term contracts.

The out-of-contract pair have signed performance-related deals with Swansea.

Swans boss Martinez said: "Shaun has made huge progress behind the scenes while Alan has worked very hard to play Championship football."

The club are also in talks with out-of-contract players Andy Robinson, Owain Tudur Jones and Tom Butler.

Captain Garry Monk and Dennis Lawrence are entitled to new deals after playing enough games in Swansea's League One title-winning campaign to trigger an automatic extension.

Spanish striker Guillem Bauza is expected to get a new Liberty Stadium deal while defenders Kevin Austin, Kristian O'Leary, and Steven Watt and goalkeeper David Knight are also out of contract.

Wales international defender Ashley Williams is expected to make his loan deal from Stockport County permanent in the summer and complete a £250,000 transfer.

Martinez is also weighing up bids for loan duo Paul Anderson and Febian Brandy but he is delighted to secure vice-captain Tate and teenage midfielder MacDonald.

Former Manchester United trainee Tate was in the Swansea team that nearly lost its Football League status in 2003, as Martinez acknowledged: "Alan is one of those players who has been through every emotion possible with the club.

"He is part of a core of players who know exactly what it takes to play for Swansea City.

"Alan is not only versatile, but he's got a winning mentality and never gets affected by any occasion in football.

"And last season was an important one for Shaun, even though he hasn't been in the limelight like some of the other players.

"He has worked really hard on a daily basis to improve his technique and strength.

"Shaun has matured and his body is finally ready to cope with the demands of professional football on a regular basis.

"I think people forget sometimes that he is still only 19. He has a bright future ahead of him and we are delighted that future will be with Swansea City.''

Wales Under-21 international MacDonald enjoyed his first league appearance of the season at Brighton on Saturday as he set-up fellow sub Brandy for the winner at the Withdean Stadium.

ROBERTO MARTINEZ paid tribute to the Swans squad that finally got their hands on the League One silverware on the south coast.

But the Swansea boss admitted he is ready to put loyalty aside as he begins to plan for Championship football next season.

Swansea are set to sort out any remaining contract issues this week with 13 players seeing their deals run out at the end of the month – including Scouse star Andy Robinson.

While there still remains a question mark over Robinson’s position, the majority of the other contracts are believed to have been agreed with just the matter of finalising the paperwork.

Yet Martinez is thought to be ready to put some under-contract players on the transfer list as he seeks to make room for summer strengthening.

“I couldn’t have asked for any more from this group of players,” he said. “There were nine contenders for player of the year and that says everything about consistency and winning mentality.

“And those qualities don’t come by chance, they come by hard work. Everyone has played their part in this success.

“And I think this group can do well in the Championship, when you look at the core of the squad it pleases me. But every squad needs strengthening and over the summer we will have to do that.

“We have to have a competitive enough squad to challenge at a higher level.

“It’s not about being loyal, it’s about football making the decisions. We all professionals and we all want to play at the highest levels.

“The players here have achieved something they can be very proud of, but in terms of the future, football will make the decisions, while I will always do the best for Swansea City.

“But, in terms of this group, I have seen a huge improvement over the last 10 or 12 months and they have an average of about 25, so I think they could all be ready for this next challenge.”

Martinez has admitted he is keen to recruit the services of loan stars Paul Anderson and Febian Brandy once more as he looks to build for next year, though is expecting to be able to have room for manoeuvre after stressing some out-of-favour players will need to look for fresh challenges.

But captain Garry Monk is confident Martinez will not need to do too much tinkering for Swansea’s first season back in the second tier since the John Toshack era.

“There’s a real strength in depth to this squad and a quality here that has made all the difference,” said Monk, who earned himself a new contract by making 25-plus appearances this season, but is expected to be offered improved terms and a longer stay following his polished performances.

“And I definitely think this team is ready for the Championship – none of us can wait. It will be a big challenge, but I’ve played there and I think the players we have here will be fine.”

Swansea City have targeted Premier League football in three to five years as the countdown to the Championship begins.

Roberto Martinez's players head off on well-earned summer breaks this week after romping to the League One title. And while the immediate aim on their return will be consolidation at the next level, Swansea insist they will not be happy with Championship football in the long term.

Martinez has ended a 24-year exile from English football's second tier in his first full season as manager.

But there is a genuine belief in the Liberty Stadium boardroom that the Spaniard can become only the second Swansea boss in history to lead the club into the top flight.

"The Premier League is our aim," chairman Huw Jenkins declared.

"Let's not fool ourselves. We know it's going to take a lot of time and hard work to get there.

"There are teams who have done well straightaway after coming up from League One and others who have come straight back down.

"There are also a number of sides who have done well in the first season and then come down again in the second, and that's something we've got to be wary of.

"The same thing happened here at Swansea when (John) Toshack took us up to the First Division. The foundations weren't there and we ended up coming all the way back down after one good season at the top.

"That's something we mustn't forget and we are aware of the need to build slowly.

"That's why we've got a three- to five-year plan aimed at taking us to the Premier League."

Martinez (pictured) held an end-of-season briefing with his players on Sunday after Swansea ended a memorable campaign with victory at Brighton.

There is still much work to do for the manager, with the future of a number of stars still to be revealed.

But the core of the squad will be coming back for pre-season training on July 1 as Swansea prepare to test themselves against the likes of Derby, Wolves and Charlton.

"We are going to try to compete and to win every match next season," Jenkins added.

"But the main thing is that when we look back this time next year, we will have survived in the Championship.

"We want to make sure the club stays at that level for a good few years and then eventually goes higher."

Jenkins drew inspiration from watching this season's race for the Premier League unfold on Sunday, when West Brom and Stoke City clinched promotion to the big time.

"It's exciting to see what we'll be part of next season," he added.

"It just shows how far we've come in the last five or six years. We've gone from battling against non-league football to a league where the prize for promotion is £60million.

"That really hit home when I was watching the last day of the Championship on Sunday.

"There are a lot of big-name players at that level, people who've played a lot of games in the Premier League.

"But what a fantastic opportunity this is for us to test ourselves against those players and for Roberto to rub shoulders with and try to beat some famous managers.

"It's a prospect for us all to look forward to, and I just hope our supporters back the club 100 per cent by making sure we have a nearly-full stadium every match."

The season of transfer rumours has kicked off with speculation linking Swansea with move for 22-year-old Dutch striker Koen van der Biezen, who plays for FC Den Bosch.

But Jenkins insisted: "I've not heard of him."

WHEN you’ve waited 24 years for something, you’re entitled to savour the moment.

But the champs’ champagne was still being sprayed around the Withdean athletics track when Roberto Martinez began talking about next season.

All year long Swansea’s Spanish gaffer has been promising he will only enjoy the moment come the final whistle on May 3.

Well, when it came, the ever-focused Martinez was already eyeing up his pre-season plans and the return of second-tier football to the city.

Of course, there were plenty of smiles and pats on the back from and for Martinez after Febian Brandy’s late strike allowed Swansea to lift the League One title with one last win and a club record 92 points.

But the mood from the manager and the majority of the players was all about next year and the thought of Championship football at the Liberty.

“It doesn’t matter about where we stand as a football club right now,” said Martinez as the celebrations carried on behind him.

“Because, wherever we are, we have to keep working, keep improving and that’s what we’re going to do.

“The important thing is the desire we’ve got in the dressing room allows us to do that so we go into the next challenge now – and I feel we are ready for it.

“Of course, it’s going to be hard and we’re going to have to go through tough times, but that togetherness and hunger we’ve got here will help us get there. It allows it to meet the challenge and raise the levels.

“As a manager you don’t have time to reflect on what you’ve achieved, you have to be thinking about the next challenge.

“You have to think about what’s next and keep striving to improve.

“Yes, this is a fantastic day and as a manager it makes me very proud – but I’ve always said I’m very proud and privileged to be Swansea City manager anyway, so I know I will keep working.”

Perhaps it’s because these promotions parties are a bit passé now – this was Swansea’s fourth after all, fifth if you include the open-top bus parade.

All deserved, of course, and there was something different about this one. The players certainly thought so, each one of them taking in the sight of the gold medals around their neck.

So, too, the fans, the 900-or-so who made it to the south coast to finally see black and white ribbons around the League One trophy.

The strange-looking piece of silver and gold should have been the ultimate and final confirmation of a team’s superiority, but oddly that wasn’t the case for some here.

Instead, for those the win that kept the 16-point chasm between the Swans and Leeds was the last word.

“The win proved beyond doubt that we’re the best team in this division, and not Leeds,” said elated skipper Garry Monk after the final whistle.

“It means we’d have been champions even if Leeds had their 15 points. We’re going home 16 points ahead of them and that’s given us great satisfaction.

“We’ve won this division outright. We’re officially the best team. We could have taken it easy against Brighton because nothing was at stake, but we were desperate to win it – in fact, we produced a performance we can be proud of.”

Plus, it was a win when many other managers could have easily struggled to whip up motivation for a side who have achieved everything they could this year.

“It wasn’t easy because we’ve set high standards for ourselves and we wanted to show the kind of form we have all season,” added Martinez. “But to finish with a win just shows the character of the squad.

“It’s fantastic to wrap it up the way we wanted. This is all about us being champions.”

Perhaps so, but it certainly wasn’t Swansea’s best display of the campaign. Brighton, having won their last three games and hitting play-off form frustratingly too late, enjoyed the better chances early on.

Aside from a seventh-minute Jason Scotland chance, a few dozy moments in defence saw the Seagulls enjoy three or four very good opportunities to open, only for a combination of Dorus de Vries, the linesman’s flag and some poor heading keeping things level.

Tom Butler was a real threat at the other end, finding Michel Kuipers in eye-catching form and equal to two curled efforts from the left midfielder, in for Andy Robinson.

And Paul Anderson should have finished better when Darren Pratley’s pass set him clear.

So Swansea seemed destined to end the season in a scoreless draw, quite ironic given the entertaining football on their part this season.

But then the double introduction of Brandy and Shaun MacDonald swung the game in the visitors’ favour.

Brandy will have taken the headlines, but it was MacDonald who created the spark to set up the victory, carrying on where he left off for the Wales Under-21s and leaving you to wonder why he hasn’t had a tiny bit more of a show this season.

He first danced his way to cross for Brandy before the striker’s attempt was foiled, but the second bamboozling by-line run left it on a plate for the Manchester United loanee.

Apart, of course, from of Monk’s duty to lift the trophy and put the finishing touches to a fantasy season for any Swans supporter.

And even Martinez couldn’t help but savour that particular moment.

Swansea City play their last game before becoming a Championship club tomorrow with Roberto Martinez determined to say a long goodbye to League One.

Swansea take on a Brighton side with nothing to play for at the Withdean hoping to sign off with one last victory in a season packed with success.

But Martinez has already begun turning his attention to next season - and to ensuring Swansea avoid an immediate league One return.

"Our aim has to be to make sure this is our last game at this level for some time," the Swansea manager said.

"We will have to make sure we improve many things between now and the start of next season, and we will have to make slow, solid steps in the Championship.

"It's going to be a real test for us over the next six or seven months, a fantastic challenge we have to be ready for. It's not going to be easy. We won't just be able to turn up.

"We'll have to work really hard to earn our status as a Championship side.

"But as a club that has to be our target. We need to make sure we don't come back to this level and I believe we are ready to do that.

"Whenever we have faced tough challenges in the past we have come through them because this club has stuck together, and I believe the same thing will happen now."

Martinez has a potential headache in midfield at Brighton after Leon Britton picked up an ankle ligament injury in training which will be assessed today.

Darren Way is also struggling to make the trip because of a knee complaint, while Ferrie Bodde will not be risked because he has not fully recovered from a groin problem.

If Britton misses out, Darren Pratley is likely to join Owain Tudur Jones in central midfield on his return from a one-match ban.

Jason Scotland, meantime, is available having returned to training in midweek after the condition of his sick mother improved.

Getting the Trinidad & Tobago man his 30th goal of the season will be one of Swansea's targets tomorrow, as will extending their club-record points return for a season to 92.

"We've got a few knocks and bruises, but we will have a strong enough squad to go to Brighton and finish the season on a high," Martinez added.

Albion boss Dean Wilkins, meantime, has warned his side they face the division's finest this weekend.

"I said early on when Swansea were just about mid-table that they would be up there," he said.

"They have been the best side by a long way."

Gareth Vincent

At last.

Swansea City are League One champions, and it's official!
Leeds United yesterday failed in their bid to claim back the 15 points they were deducted by the Football League. For anyone who has managed to miss the story (and there can't be many in the city), the decision by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators means Leeds will not now win automatic promotion from League One (though they are in the play-offs) and, more importantly, cannot catch the table-topping Swans.

Football clubs seem to survive on highs and lows, and this season Swansea City have had more than their fair share of both.

As we said in these columns a few days ago, the ineptitude of the Football League threatened to turn high achievement into a pub quiz question (name the team that secured promotion twice from the same division in the same season). However, it's now over and all's well that ends well.

Roberto Martinez has been full of praise for the loyal fans who have supported the team throughout this roller-coaster ride. A fitting tribute to their devotion would be for the League One trophy to be displayed at a prominent site for all to see - if only to prove we haven't dreamt it!

SWANSEA CITY are League One champions . . . and this time it is official. Roberto Martinez’s men were finally confirmed as title winners by the Football League after Leeds’ controversial points appeal was thrown out yesterday.

The independent arbitration panel’s decision means the Swans will finally get their hands on the League One trophy tomorrow at Brighton – no matter what.

Leeds failed to convince a three-man panel of legal experts that it was unfair of the Football League to dock them 15 points for breaking CVA rules.

The decision ruled out any hope the fallen Premier League giants had of leapfrogging their way into the automatic places and straight into a title shoot-out with the Swans this weekend.

So, having enjoyed four promotion parties to date, Martinez’s men have been given the green light to get the champagne out again after being told their first-placed finish in the table was secure.

Swansea’s stars originally celebrated promotion at Gillingham – only to be told nothing would be made official until the arbitration panel made its verdict.

The Swans – League One leaders since November – ignored the red tape to party on the Liberty Stadium pitch after their defeat to Yeovil, as results elsewhere left them with the title.

They followed that up with a final hurrah in front of delirious home fans with a 4-1 rout over Leyton Orient and an open-top bus parade – even though league officials refused to present the team with their trophy, pending the Leeds case.

Swans chairman Huw Jenkins admitted his delight at finally being told the club can officially call themselves champions after last night’s verdict.

“It was the outcome I expected and, of course, we’re pleased with it. No disrespect to Leeds or its supporters, but the credibility of the Football League was at stake,” said Jenkins.

“Many clubs have been docked points and players been suspended. As part of the Football League, we must each accept whatever verdicts come our way – and that was the issue here.

“We each signed our papers to be part of the Football League and we have to abide by the rules.”

A decision to return Leeds just some of their 15 points would have plunged the division in chaos, with several League One chairmen threatening to issue their own legal action.

Although Leeds accepted this was the end of the saga, furious chairman Ken Bates demanded the resignation of league chief Brian Mawhinney.

He said: “No matter how gently they put it, the panel criticised the procedures of the Football League.

“In the circumstances, I think the least the directors of the league should do is consider their position and Mawhinney should resign and go back to Northern Ireland.”

In a statement, league chairman Lord Mawhinney said: “On behalf of the board and the league, I welcome the panel’s findings in their entirety.

“Now I believe we should draw a line under the whole process and move on. Leeds United are a valued member of the Football League family.”

The panel outlined three main reasons for upholding the league’s decision to dock Leeds points last August, the delay in the case coming to arbitration, the unfair impact on the other sides in League One and the documents signed by the Elland Road club that said they accepted the initial punishment.

An independent tribunal has upheld the Football League's 15-point penalty imposed on Leeds at the start of the season.

A three-day hearing reached its conclusion behind closed doors on Thursday in London where Leeds failed to convince a three-man panel that the League acted unfairly when docking the points as punishment for breaking competition rules on insolvency.

The hearing's decision to rule in the League's favour sees Leeds stay in sixth place in League One - and they must now hope to secure promotion via a play-off place.

Jason Scotland added to his sensational debut season in English football by landing three accolades at Swansea City's annual awards function last night.

The Trinidad and Tobago striker continued his rise to fame at the club by landing the top gong at the Evening Post-sponsored Swansea City Supporters' Trust Official Player of the Year Awards Dinner last night.

Scotland, who has scored 29 goals at the Liberty Stadium since moving to from St Johnstone, has proved a pivotal part in the club's promotion-clinching season.

And he beat off stiff competition to win the supporter's player of the year award. That's a big pat on the back for Scotland, whose work-rate was questioned by some fans despite his remarkable scoring record.

Scotland also took home the away player of the year trophy along with the top scorer award. Finishing 16 goals clear of second-placed Guillem Bauza, it rounded off a campaign which will give the Caribbean star much to smile about.

The 29-year-old was yesterday part of rumoured interest from relegated Premier League outfit Derby County, with one red top suggesting the Rams will table a £2million offer for the striker.

But Swansea fans will be hoping to see their star frontman back at the Liberty in the summer, especially as they prepare to step up a division.

Another man they will be keen to see back in the heart of defence is captain Garry Monk, who was voted players' player of the year.

A reassuring figure at the back whose positional play and ability to read the game, Monk has certainly been a key part this season.

Monk, 29, has been outstanding in a season which he has steered clear of injury, and Martinez will be keen to retain the services of his skipper, who is in discussions over a new contract.

Liverpool flyer Paul Anderson capped off his season-long loan in South Wales by winning the young player of the year accolade.

The 19-year-old winger provided blistering pace and chipped in with 10 goals during his stint at Swansea, despite being sidelined for a few months due to a hamstring injury.

A favourite with the Liberty faithful, Martinez has already declared his intention to possibly bring the pace ace back to Swansea next season - whether permanently or on loan.

There was further joy for the midfield department as Welsh international Owain Tudur Jones was commended for his patience by scooping the clubman of the year award.

The former Bangor star ended a torturous spell on the sidelines by returning to action for both club and country.

Tipped to captain his country by Martinez, Tudur Jones's ability has never been questioned.

If he manages to avoid injury next season, the North Walian will give Martinez some healthy options in midfield.

The final presentation saw Professor David Farmer receiving the lifetime achievement award. Currently the club president, Farmer has also been the club historian and has written a number of books about the club.

Roberto Martinez has unveiled plans to bring Febian Brandy back to Swansea City next season.

The Manchester United youngster is due back at Old Trafford next week after nearly four months on loan at the Liberty Stadium.

And Martinez has revealed he hopes this weekend's final-day trip to Brighton will not mark the end of Brandy's Swansea career.

The Swansea manager is already planning to bring back his other loanee, Paul Anderson of Liverpool, back to Wales next season.

And he said: "First and foremost you have to see what the players think in these situations.

"They have to decide whether they've enjoyed their time with us, if they feel they've progressed and if they think we can give them the next challenge in their careers.

"If they do, we as a club will be delighted to have Febian and Paul with us next season.

"They settled straight into our squad, they brought something different on the pitch and they both conducted themselves like role models."

Martinez says he is still to talk with United and Liverpool over Swansea's pair of borrowed teenagers.

But the Spaniard will get in touch with Rafa Benitez and Sir Alex Ferguson to discuss the prospect of re-signing Anderson and Brandy if the players are keen.

With just two league starts and two goals to his credit, Brandy has been unable to match the huge impact made by Anderson.

But Martinez has high hopes for the speedy frontman.

"He has had huge success with us because he has mastered the role he's played," he added.

"He scored some important goals and he has always had an impact in games.

"His most mature performance came against Carlisle, and we got exactly what we expected from Febian when we signed him.

"Potentially he is a Premier League player, he has got that in his genes, and he could not have taken his first few steps in senior football more successfully. He has achieved some career milestones with Swansea City."

SWANSEA City must model themselves on Bristol City if they want to ensure a successful season in the Championship next year.


Roberto Martinez can't stand still in the transfer market and keep the same squad for next term. I'm sure he won't, especially when you look at what has happened to Scunthorpe this season.

They stormed through League One and were very convincing winners, but look at them now. Second from bottom in the Championship, their relegation is not surprising.

Scunthorpe have a small ground, small support and didn't bring in many new signings. They suffered the consequences from it and have taken a step back.

Swansea can't afford to do this and I expect Roberto to bring in around five new faces during the summer.

If he can pull a few more rabbits out of the hat and sign quality unknown players like he has already, then that's great.

It would be great to see the likes of young Welsh talent in Joe Allen, Shaun MacDonald and Chris Jones given a chance to grow next season, but if Roberto has to bring in quality from around the continent then so be it.

Bristol City have brought in quality players, along with a certain million pound man in Lee Trundle, and they can look forward to the play-offs.

Fast forward 12 months, Swansea would certainly take that.

Looking at the kind of player I would bring in, then Freddy Eastwood is certainly one. I would like to see him playing alongside Jason Scotland - they would get certainly get goals in the Championship.

Obviously, that would depend on his availability, the transfer fee and discussions between Mick McCarthy and Roberto.

Scotland has been superb this season and for me is definitely Swansea's player of the season. He's got 29 goals this season, with a game to play, and that is a fantastic return for a man who cost just £25,000.

Okay, some people will argue that quite a few of the goals were penalties, but you have to score them.

Scotland has also scored typical strikers' goals from a few yards out while he showed that he can score some stunners as well, as displayed against Bristol Rovers.

People question his work rate and say he's lazy, but I don't think people realise the system that Roberto uses.

Scotland is the tip of the arrow - if the tip is blunt you won't go anywhere. You could have him running around like a headless chicken, but then he wouldn't get on the end of crosses.

I fully expect him to score goals in the Championship, although he will be a marked man now.

Perhaps he won't score the same amount, but he will cause havoc there even against stronger opposition.

There are a few players I am looking forward to seeing play in the Championship next season.

Guillem Bauza, after a slow start in British football, has grown stronger every single game.

He has adapted very well and his hat-trick last Saturday will have done his confidence the world of good.

Bauza's skill was never in doubt. He is a tricky and intelligent player, who could do well next season while I'm really eager to see Andrea Orlandi in action.

He is in the same mould as Lionel Messi - confident on the ball and willing to attack on the left, and he could prove a handful for the opposition.

Owain Tudur Jones is another one. He's got some important game-time under his belt lately and that puts him in good stead for next season.

I've been hugely impressed with Owain since I saw him at Bangor, and he's got big things ahead of him.

But before we can smell the Championship, Swansea have one game left at Brighton before the curtain comes down on their season.

It is a good opportunity for Roberto to give his fringe players a chance to shine, but I don't expect him to do that.

With what is happening with Leeds, I expect Swansea to be at full strength. I can see the Football League making a decision on Leeds' situation after the weekend, which could affect Swansea's status as champions.

Swansea deserve to be champions, especially when you look at the quality football they have played.

The Leeds situation should not threaten to disrupt their achievements.

ROBERTO Martinez has opened talks with Jason Scotland over a new deal – in a bid to keep big-spending rivals at bay.

Scotland yesterday became the first of Swansea’s promotion-winning team to be linked with a Liberty Stadium exit after the star striker was named as a £2m target for Derby County.

And, having grabbed attention of numerous managers with his 29-goal exploits this season, fans are fearful there will be more clubs waiting in the wings to try and lure the Trinidad international away from South Wales.

But it is understood Scotland, who has been named the club’s player of the year, wants to commit his future to the club and has already started discussions with Martinez about extending his Swansea stay. His contract is due to run out at the end of next season.

But, after an impressive impact in his debut Football League season, Swansea will be bracing themselves for a summer of speculation involving Scotland and their other key men.

After helping Swansea to top spot, Ferrie Bodde and Angel Rangel were linked with moves away from the Liberty earlier in the campaign. Andy Robinson has long been admired by rival bosses, all of whom will be keeping tabs on the midfielder’s contract situation.

Under no pressure to sell any of his stars, Martinez has always maintained he enjoys hearing of interest in his players, seeing it as complimentary to Swansea’s success.

Martinez has been quick to praise all of his players’ efforts this season and admitted he was pleased not to have to decide on the player of the year award.

And, although Scotland may have walked home with the prize last night, Swans legend Alan Curtis believes he fought off stiff competition to do so.

Curtis, who made a name for himself during three different spells at the club during the 1970s and ’80s, is now part of Martinez’s backroom staff as a coach and scout and has had a first-hand view of the team’s success this year.

But, with so many players consistently performing well this season, he admitted it was very hard to single out just one individual. That, in his eyes, is just further proof of how successful the Swans campaign has been.

“This has to be the fiercest competition we have had for the player of the year in ages,” he claimed. “That just shows how well we have done this season.

“It’s been such a good season that everyone was a contender for that award. A lot of players made huge contributions.

“When you look through the side everyone played vital roles in winning promotion. So whoever was going to win that award, they certainly deserved it.”

With his goal-scoring exploits hard to ignore, Curtis admitted Scotland was always going to be a front-runner for the award. The Trinidad and Tobago international’s prolific form has certainly been a crucial factor in the Swans success.

But Curtis feels club captain Garry Monk, for his efforts at the other end of the pitch, must have been a close second. The Swans skipper was a rock in defence.

With his impressive individual displays being matched by equally strong leadership skills, Curtis believes Monk couldn’t have been far behind Scotland in the votes.

“Garry had to be up there,” he said. “He put in some great performances and was a brilliant leader, on and off the pitch.

“Had it just been a case of who the most influential player was, he would have won.

“Sometimes defenders don’t get the credit they deserve. And, with Garry in particular, it’s only when he is not in the team that you realise exactly how good he is.”

He continued: “Jason was the top contender, though. To have 29 goals so far is a fantastic achievement. Anyone who scores that many goals has got to be up there with the best. Jason is no exception.

“And it’s not just that he scored a lot of goals, he scored them at crucial times. When Swansea needed him, he delivered.”

As for the other contenders, Curtis added: “Dorus de Vries also looked excellent throughout the season and Angel Rangel was a revelation after coming into British football as relative unknown.

“Ferrie Bodde has also been excellent this season. He is such a brilliant footballer to watch.

“If you talk about players that can go to a higher level, Ferrie has got Premiership class written all over him.

“Then if you are talking about consistent performers, Leon Britton is one of the best. He has been magnificent since the day he walked into this club and this season is no different.

“On top of that there are several other players, the likes of Darren Pratley, Andy Robinson, Tom Butler and Paul Anderson, that deserve a mention. There are just too many to chose from.”

SWANSEA CITY will today face an anxious wait over their champion status as Leeds’ controversial points appeal reaches D-day.

Swansea officials have been told to expect a formal announcement by 5pm this evening when they will discover if Leeds’ claim to have their docked 15 points reinstated has been successful.

And, if the decision goes in the Yorkshire club’s favour, it will plunge League One into chaos.

Although Swansea’s promotion is assured, they must wait to find out whether they still need to beat Brighton this Saturday to take the title – or if their first-placed finish is already secured.

And their fate lies with a three-man arbitration panel, chaired by Sir Phillip Otton, who will give a final decision on the matter later today.

But it is thought a finding in Leeds’ favour could see the ramifications going long into the summer.

The on-going saga has plagued the division in recent weeks with several clubs set to be affected by today’s outcome.

Should the Elland Road outfit get seven or more points back, they would move into the automatic promotion places. If they get 10 or more back, they would be guaranteed promotion. The full 15 would leave them just one point off Swansea going into this weekend’s final fixtures, Leeds facing relegation-threatened Gillingham, while the Swans are at Brighton.

As things stand, with three points still left to play for, Doncaster are in second with Carlisle and Nottingham Forest also in contention for automatic promotion. All three clubs would be likely to take some form of action should Leeds displace them.

The delay in a decision has sparked outrage across the league with Martinez admitting Swansea have been lucky that their elevation to the Championship cannot be affected.

But, speaking on the situation earlier this month, Martinez said: “This is away from football. Football issues should be dealt with by football’s governing bodies.

“Fifa and Uefa don’t like it when you take things outside of football. I don’t want to waste any time thinking about it because if the decision goes against the football rules, it’s going to be a much bigger problem. Other teams could then take it further and they would be right to do so.

“There are huge repercussions in world football when you do that. It can be dangerous.

“I think everyone is under the impression after this that every single football club will have the right to take things further.

“I am sure Carlisle and Doncaster, teams who could be affected, will also take things further.”

Doncaster, who could have their automatic promotion hopes wrecked by a decision in Leeds’ favour, have hit out at the situation and chairman John Ryan has revealed it has created a lot of animosity from the rest of the division.

“It would be totally wrong if Leeds get the points back,” said Ryan. “They went into administration, leaving millions of pounds of creditors’ money unpaid. This season they have been spending on players and now they want the points back.

“I am not the only chairman who feels like this. There is a lot of bad feeling out there.”

And Nottingham Forest striker Nathan Tyson threw his weight behind the farce that prevented Swansea lifting the League One title in front of their own fans last weekend, insisting it was unfair on the fans.

“Personally, I don’t think it’s right,” said Tyson, a former Swans loan player.

“If they are going to give Leeds their points back then they should have done it a long time ago.

“I feel sorry for Swansea, I really do, because there’s some great lads down there. I played there myself and the fans are fantastic and I know they’ll be gutted if they can’t get their trophy on the final day of the season. It’s sad, but this is football and anything can happen. I just hope the league use common sense and do the right thing.”

Roberto Martinez admits he can't split the contenders as Swansea City prepare to name their star of the season this evening.

The Evening Post Player of the Year trophy, which is voted for by our readers, will be presented at Liberty Stadium dinner tonight.

Top-scorer Jason Scotland is favourite to land the award, but fellow nominees Garry Monk, Angel Rangel, Dorus de Vries, Leon Britton and Ferrie Bodde have all enjoyed fine campaigns.

And Martinez admits he's glad the supporters have decided on the winner - because he can't pick one.

"We have got so many players who have been so consistent this season that I wouldn't be able to choose between them," said the Swansea manager.

"Never mind the six who are on the short list, there are nine or 10 players who could make strong cases for winning the award.

"The hardest thing in football is finding that consistency that means you can get results at home and away and when you're facing all kinds of challenges.

"But nine or 10 players have produced that for us this season and that's why we've been successful in League One.

"You could make a strong argument for all of them to win and I've never known a player-of-the-year award like it.

"It would be impossible for me to select one player because they've all done so well."

Scotland may not be at the dinner because his mother has been taken ill after flying over from the Caribbean to watch last Saturday's game against Leyton Orient.

The Trinidad & Tobago international has missed training this week and was also absent from Swansea's open-top bus parade on Monday night.

And he may now sit out this weekend's trip to Brighton.

"We are all supporting Jason and hoping he will be able to resume training very soon," Martinez added.

"But he needs to be mentally right first to train and then to play, so we'll see how he is towards the end of the week."

Roberto Martinez today played down fears that Ferrie Bodde could quit Swansea City this summer.

Rumours have suggested the Dutchman is not happy in Wales because his family are homesick and that a bigger club in this country could swoop on the midfield ace.

Losing Bodde, a star this season following his cut-price move from ADO Den Haag, would be a major blow to Swansea as they prepare for life in the Championship.

But Martinez has brushed aside talk of his playmaker departing before Swansea kick off in English football's second tier.

"You see Ferrie on the pitch and I think you can draw your own conclusions from the way he performs there," the Swansea manager said.

"Ferrie has adapted to the British game really well and he is enjoying his football.

"I think he needs another challenge next season - but he will get that with us.

"I don't think another season in League One would have been healthy for Ferrie. He needs the challenge of the Championship and he is looking forward to it."

Martinez is aware of the Bodde speculation, but added: "He is the kind of player who will always attract rumours.

"I look at Ferrie in training and on the pitch and he transmits great happiness.

"He is a winner and a great professional and Swansea City can be very happy with his feelings."

Bodde hopes to make a final League One appearance at Brighton this weekend having been sidelined since Easter Monday with a groin injury.

But Martinez warned: "If he's only 99 per cent fit, he won't be involved.

"He's desperate to play and he's worked really hard to try to get back before the end of the season, but I'll be happy for him to have a good break and make sure he comes back with no problems in pre-season."

Bodde's possible absence increases the likelihood of Owain Tudur Jones getting another taste of the action at the Withdean.

The Wales international made his first start in 17 months against Leyton Orient last weekend after knee and ankle problems.

"It's difficult to get into the pace of the game when you've been out for a long time, but Owain did really well," Martinez said.

"He can be proud of that first 90 minutes and we all enjoyed seeing him out there affecting things again."

Fellow midfielder and long-term casualty Darren Way played over half an hour against Orient after a season of limited opportunities.

Way's best run of games came during a loan spell at former club Yeovil, and Glovers boss Russell Slade has declared his interest in re-signing the 28-year-old this summer.

"We have had no formal approach from Yeovil or anyone else and at the moment we're just looking at finishing the season," Martinez said.

"I'm not surprised if they are interested because Darren has a huge reputation in League One. He set the standards when he went back to Yeovil on loan.

"But these are just rumours. They are the kind you get when you are on top of the table."

FLAG-WAVING Swansea City fans leaned from windows and cheered from the rooftops last night as their promotion-celebrating players crawled past in a vintage open-top bus.

The jubilant crowd know that promotion to the Championship means the club which nearly went out of existence a few years ago is just another successful season away from entry to the millionaire’s club, the Premiership.

The vibrant victory parade mirrored the celebration in 1981 when Swansea won promotion to the old First Division, pitting the Welsh club against the giants of Manchester United and Arsenal.

And last night’s parade began from the place all Swansea fans have held close to their hearts, the club’s former Vetch Field home.

Swansea left the Vetch in 2005 for the club’s much-admired Liberty Stadium where tickets will be even harder to come by next season.

Hemmed in by terraced streets and watched over by Swansea’s Victorian seafront jail, the once graceful Vetch Field is now largely dismantled.

But it was where the players wanted to begin their slow journey, surrounded by fans, to a civic reception last night at Swansea’s Guildhall.

Swansea supporters waved and sang “The Jacks are going up” as Roberto Martinez’s men held on to the open-topped double decker’s silver rails.

And the players, with mascot Cyril the Swan nestled between them, sprayed champagne, Grand Prix-style, over the excited fans as the bus began its momentous journey. Club chaplain and radio presenter Kevin Johns, a regular in the Grand Theatre’s panto cast, used a microphone to relay the players’ thanks to the crowd.

In 1981 the Swansea City promotion-celebrating team led by John Toshack travelled by double-decker along the same route to the Guildhall.

While the early-1980s Swans who topped the First Division for a while had a nucleus of Welsh stars, including pundit Leighton James, the late Robbie James, Jeremy Charles and Alan Curtis, the 2008 Swansea team is far more cosmopolitan. But whether they were Trinidadian, Spanish, Dutch, English or Irish, last night the Swans stars were all firmly welcomed as “Jacks”.

Thousands waved black-and-white flags in the bright evening sunshine as the bus, sometimes looking perilously overcrowded, made its way through the ranks of adoring fans.

Among them was musician and TV and radio presenter Mal Pope and his 18-year-old son Lewis, also a Swans fan.

Mal, who lives in Mumbles, said: “I remember watching my first Swans game, it was against Northampton in the late 1960s. I was playing for Brynhyfryd at the time and in those days local football used to finish early so we could go to the Vetch.

“I remember when the Swans won promotion to the old First Division, which was the equivalent of the Premiership in the 1980s. At the time I was working as a musician in London but I managed to see the Swans against quite a few of the London clubs.

“An achievement like this does wonders for the city in terms of prestige and confidence. And to see so many people lining the streets cheering the boys on shows just how much it means to the people of Swansea.”

Long-term Swans supporter Nigel Davies, of the fanzine A Touch Far Vetched, said as the players approached Swansea’s Guildhall: “This is a time and place Swansea fans have to be. It’s part of history. This parade will be remembered in decades to come and it will be nice to say, ‘I was there’.

“I think the fans will have to have their feet on the ground next year because financially it’s going to be a challenge. For instance the club will have to pay more for policing costs and it will definitely have to pay more for salaries.

“But if you asked if we will struggle on the pitch I would definitely say, ‘No’. We already have the basis of a quality team, playing top class football and all the players know they are just a season away from the premiership.”

The only thing missing from last night’s celebration was the League One trophy itself.

Yorkshire rivals Leeds United’s appeal to have the club’s 15-point deduction reinstated is still under consideration and – in theory – Leeds could overtake Swansea as champions, though the club is definitely promoted.

Swans boss Roberto Martinez said last night: “I have never seen anything like it in any other league. But you don’t need a trophy to share this kind of chemistry with the fans – they have been a massive, massive part of what we have done this season.

“As for next season we’ve got a group of top players and all we need to do is freshen it up a little bit – just small details.”

Swans fans ride a rollercoaster of ups and downs

DESPITE attempts by a club named Swansea Villa, there were no top-class football clubs in the seaside city until the establishment of Swansea Town AFC in 1912.

The Swansea Gaslight Company owned Vetch Field which rented it to the club. Swansea’s first professional match was at Vetch Field against arch-rivals Cardiff City in September 1912 with the result a 1-1 draw.

The Swans reached the Second Division for the first time in 1925 and the next year beat Arsenal to reach the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time but lost to Bolton.

In the 1955-56 season with a side containing the likes of Ivor Allchurch, Terry Medwin, Harry Griffiths, and Tom Kiley, Swansea challenged for promotion to Division One but narrowly failed.

The club’s “golden years” began under manager former Liverpool, Cardiff City and Wales striker John Toshack who on March 1, 1978, aged 28, became youngest manager in the Football League, with former Swans boss Harry Griffiths as his assistant. Under Toshack the Swans climbed from the Fourth Division to the top of the entire league.

The 1981-82 season began with Swansea demolishing Leeds Utd 5-1, then came victories over world-renowned sides like Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

Bad luck in the transfer market, plus financial problems and some poor form, led to the club going back down the divisions. Swansea City was actually wound up by a court order in December 1985 but was saved by fan and businessman Doug Sharpe.

In 2001 the most dire period in the club’s history began as an Australian consortium headed by Londoner Tony Petty took over, seven players were sacked and eight saw their contracts ended.

The Swansea City Supporters’ Trust was formed and though in 2003 the club narrowly avoided relegation to the Football Conference it went from strength to strength winning promotion to Division One. The club moved to the Liberty Stadium in 2005.

Spanish player Roberto Martinez became Swansea City manager in February last year and is so highly thought of that he has been given a contract until 2012.

Naughty ones, Cyril...

Swansea City’s mascot Cyril the Swan, who rode with the players last night, is renowned as one of football’s naughtiest mascots.

Once voted Best Mascot by readers of the BBC’s Match of the Day magazine, his flamboyant behaviour has led to him being talked to by the police on several occasions.

One of his antics included him removing the head of Millwall mascot, Zampa The Lion, then kicking it rugby style into the Vetch Field’s North Bank.

He also swore on a live Dutch TV programme, was accused of pushing an official over at a game and was also said to have pushed over a fellow opponent in a mascots’ race.

A police spokeswoman said a person wearing a nine-foot tall swan costume assaulted a 46-year-old woman dressed as a dog during the “Mascot Grand National”.

Cyril once appeared as the pet of the Emperor of China in Aladdin at the Swansea Grand Theatre.

ROBERTO MARTINEZ is confident Swansea City’s “huge” success at the PFA Awards will be another key step in raising the club’s profile.

Such is the respect among their peers for the Swans’ achievements this season, the club had five players included in the League One Team of the Year.

Voted for by their fellow professionals, the awards have been referred to as the “ultimate compliment” by Swans skipper Garry Monk. And it clearly means a lot to his manager as well.

Martinez chose to see the results as another indication that Swansea are the best team in their division.

But, far from being content with having five players included, the Spaniard believes the likes of Dorus de Vries, Tom Butler, Leon Britton and Darren Pratley should also have been acknowledged.

“It’s a huge achievement for this club,” he beamed. “To make such an impact is brilliant.

“I still look at another four or five players that were very unlucky to miss out. But I suppose you can’t expect to have all 11 players.

“It really raises the profile of the club and it will get a lot of people talking about Swansea City. It’s a clear reflection of our success this season.”

With Cardiff and Wrexham failing to have any players in their respective Championship and League Two teams, Swansea were the only Welsh club represented at the awards on Sunday. But Wales international Wayne Hennessey was voted as the best goalkeeper in the Championship.

PFA teams of the year

Premier League: David James (Portsmouth), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd), Nemanja Vidic (Man Utd), Gael Clichy (Arsenal), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd), Ashley Young (Aston Villa), Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal), Fernando Torres (Liverpool).

Championship: Wayne Hennessy (Wolves), Bradley Orr (Bristol City), Ryan Shawcross (Stoke), Dan Shittu (Watford), Paul Robinson (West Brom), Brian Howard (Barnsley), Marvin Elliott (Bristol City), Liam Lawrence (Stoke), Jonathan Greening (West Brom), Ricardo Fuller (Stoke), Kevin Phillips (West Brom).

League One: Kieren Westwood (Carlisle), Angel Rangel (Swansea), Garry Monk (Swansea), Danny Livesey (Carlisle), Julian Bennett (Nottm Forest), Andy Robinson (Swansea), Ferrie Bodde (Swansea), Kris Commons (Nottm Forest), Richie Wellens (Doncaster), Jermaine Beckford (Leeds), Jason Scotland (Swansea).

.... and tells the fans ‘see you next season’

HAT-TRICK hero Guillem Bauza is already relishing life in the Championship after signing off his debut season at the Liberty Stadium in superb style on Saturday.

The Spaniard was left with a special momento from Swansea’s last home game of the season, capping a brilliant man-of-the-match performance with three well-taken goals.

That was enough to ensure he was the first Swans player to take the match ball home this season.

Having scored the two goals that secured the club’s promotion at Gillingham, Bauza is already a firm favourite among fans.

Making it five goals in two starts certainly hasn’t changed that. Roberto Martinez said Bauza was reaping the rewards for his hard work throughout the season.

The striker himself was just happy to reflect on a good debut season and a memory he hopes will last the fans throughout the summer.

“I think it was the best way to say goodbye to the Liberty Stadium for the summer,” he said.

“It said, ‘See you next year.’And I think the fans were happy with that. The team played well, we got a good win and I was able to score so I’m happy too.

“It’s my first British hat-trick so I’m going to hold on to the ball. I got all the lads to sign it and I will keep it forever.

“I’ve had a few hat-tricks in my career and, as a striker, they are always the games you remember.”

He continued: “It’s been a good end to the season for me. I don’t think my overall record is that bad either. I’ve had 21 starts and got 13 goals so I’m really happy about that.

“More goals have arrived recently but you never know as a striker if, when you have been out of the team, the goals will come again.

“You have to wait and grab your opportunity.

“Then you just have to try and score as many goals as you can.”

Bauza’s current contract expires at the end of the season. But he is confident, along with his manager, that he will still be at the Liberty next season.

After an uncertain start to life in South Wales, the Spaniard has adapted well to English football.

And, with this campaign set to end at Brighton next week, he is already looking to life in the Championship.

He added: “I think my season has got better and better. As a young footballer you always have to do that and you always have to try and improve.

“You always have to train harder and, for me, next season has to be even better. I want better achievements and better things.

“I’m really excited about playing in the Championship. It’s a very good level with some very good teams.”

SUN, sea and Sangria; who wouldn’t want to spend a week in the Costa Brava this summer?

But Swansea City’s players for one might find that life is not a beach when they arrive in one of the Mediterranean’s holiday hotspots. They have four games in six days to look forward to instead.

The news comes as manager Roberto Martinez looks to put the finishing touches to the club’s pre-season plans.

El Gaffer is hoping some summer Spanish lessons will ensure his team make a flying start to life in the Championship.

With the League One campaign drawing to a close on Saturday, the Swans boss is already preparing for the challenges that await next season. And a pre-season tour of the Costa Brava is at the top of his priority list.

Having spent a week in Sweden and played a number of games against teams from the Welsh Premier League, the Swans will head out to Spain for the last week of July.

And, with a potential clash against a top La Liga team on the agenda, Martinez believes the trip will have huge benefits for the start of Swansea’s Championship campaign.

He believes the Swans can learn a lot from the Spanish approach to professional football.

And he is confident his squad can pick up some invaluable tips as they prepare to test themselves at the next level.

“There are many, many things we can learn from going out to Spain,” he explained.

“Sometimes you have to take players to a new environment where they can learn things they might not do elsewhere.

“The biggest thing for everyone will be learning from the tempo of the game out there. The tempo in Spain, France and Italy is completely different to what we have in the UK, especially in the lower leagues.

“The other aspect is the professionalism they display in Spain. Everyone should realise that being a professional footballer is something that should occupy you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“What you do off the pitch is as important as what you do on it. That attitude and respect for your body is something you need at every club and perhaps something you can pick up more from the leagues abroad.

“There are other aspects of the game in which the UK is far in advance of the leagues in Spain or Italy. That’s great, but it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to learn other things from them.”

He continued: “I want to work hard on the tactical side of things when we are with the Spanish sides. Hopefully that will include one big La Liga club.”

Despite the step up, Martinez has no intention of making radical changes to the Swans style of play. And he is fully confident his side have what it takes to compete at a higher level.

So long as the Swans keep playing the football that has made them successful, the Spaniard believes they can be a success in the Championship.

And it seems small changes will be the order of the day when his players return to training at the end of June.

“Realistically our philosophy of how to play is not going to change at all,” he said.

“We will need to adapt to certain aspects of the Championship but that is something we will do together during pre-season. I don’t think we need to prepare for a big difference in standards.”

KIERON HOWARD fired a late winner for Swansea City in their Welsh Youth Cup final against Cardiff City at Ninian Park last night.

The U19 final, watched by Dave Jones (Cardiff) and Roberto Martinez (Swansea), was heading for extra-time when the ball was lifted high into Cardiff’s penalty area and former Morriston Town player Howard, 17, got in front of an attempted punch clear by Polish goalkeeper Erwin Sak to score.

Swansea City carved out the best two chances of the match before scoring. The first fell for Casey Thomas when he ran on to a Matthew Wright pass during the first half. His shot was comfortably saved by Sak.

Jazz Richards let fly with a fierce drive from 10 yards late in the second half and this time Sak had to dive quickly and turned the effort away.

Rhys Kelleher did well for the Bluebirds, while Josh Magennis went on from the substitutes’ bench and added a genuine aerial threat.

Captain James Burgin, who is from Derby and has played Welsh Premier football for Port Talbot Town, shone for the Swans. He also played a crucial role in their 90th-minute winner. The full-back lifted the ball into Cardiff’s penalty area and Howard flicked a header into the net.

It was a closely-fought match which could have gone either way, but Swansea earned the cup-winning break just as the final looked to be heading into injury time.

Martinez says the Swans will celebrate despite not having a trophy to lift

Defiant Swansea boss Roberto Martinez says the League One champions will celebrate after the last home game of the season despite not having a trophy.

The Swans were crowned champions last weekend after rivals Carlisle lost.

But the Football League has refused to hand over the League One trophy until Leeds United's arbitration hearing over a 15-point deduction has been settled.

"It's the last home game, it's our home and we can do whatever we want," said Martinez.

"The fans and players deserve it and I think we should celebrate what has been a very exciting season and create something special to remember."

Earlier this week the Football League revealed it would not present the League One trophy to Swansea this weekend due to Leeds' ongoing arbitration process.

Should United win their battle to regain the points taken off them earlier this season then they could still be in the running for the title.

As a result, the League are refusing to "engage in any actions which might be misconstrued or viewed as pre-empting the arbitration process in any way" after taking legal advice.

But Swansea players press on a party after Leyton Orient's visit to the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.

Vice captain Alan Tate said: "It's irrelevant that we won't be getting the trophy.

"We've won the league, that's how we feel so whatever happens outside football has got nothing to do with us.

"It's our last home game and I'm sure the fans will get a lap at the end and they will cheer us as if we did get the trophy."

Winger Tom Butler told of his "frustration" over the Leeds arbitration and lack of a trophy, while loanee Anthony Williams said: "It's wrong."

The Swans beat Orient 5-0 in their corresponding fixture earlier this season and are hoping for a similar victory in front of their own fans to sign off a fine season at the Liberty Stadium.