Career high: Michael Laudrup says trophy with little Swansea beats everything

24 Feb 2013 22:30

Capital One Cup triumph sweeter than jugs won with clubs like Barcelona – and he's looking forward to Europa League IF he stays

On the up: Swansea players lift up boss Michael Laudrup after their 5-0 victory

Scott Heavey

Michael Laudrup last night hailed Swansea’s historic cup victory – after confirming his status as one of Europe’s hottest managers.

Laudrup claims guiding the Swans to their first major trophy ranks beside winning the European Cup with Barcelona and the Euros with Denmark.

His success will also strengthen his claim to succeed Jose Mourinho if he quits Real Madrid this summer.

“As a manager it’s absolutely at the top, winning a trophy for the first time in 100 years,” Laudrup said.

“The first trophy is always special, and now next year in Europe - it’s a nice experience.
“I don’t think I can compare this title with something I have done before for the simple reason that it’s one thing to win a cup with Barcelona, Madrid or Juventus, but to to win it with a smaller team, like Swansea, is absolutely fantastic.
“It’s the first major trophy ever and it’s up there with the best things because it’s completely different.”
Laudrup refused to offer any guarantees that he would lead Swansea into Europe next season and Michu hopes he will stay.
“The gaffer here has done great in his first season,” said the striker, who scored in the rout.
“But I could go up to Michael and say stay with us now in Europe, but I know other people will want him.
“He’s really good, doing really well. Maybe he can go with another club, but I hope he will stay here.”

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Michael Regan

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Bradford City v Swansea City - Capital One Cup Final

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 Swansea totally controlled the game and Laudrup was delighted that they completely snuffed out the threat posed by League Two giantkillers Bradford.
“To lift the trophy is great,” he said, “But I think the way we did it, 5-0. I don’t have the numbers in possession, but I think they had the first shot on target after 85 minutes.
“I think that says a lot about our performance because we all know what Bradford has done this season, against Wigan, Arsenal and Aston Villa.
“What they have done this season is absolutely outstanding and I think this final this year will remain in history, a small part because of us and a large part because of Bradford.
“I don’t know if this is the most important day in the club’s history because I know in this club there have been some very, very special moments.
“There was a special game some years ago where the club could have gone out of League Two, you’re talking about your life you’re playing for there.
“And two years ago playing to go from Championship to Premier League and that’s a world of difference as well. So those two moments are more important, but I think first major trophy ranks very highly in the history of the club.”