This is South Wales -- SWANSEA City's amazing Capital One Cup victory is set to give the city a massive lift, it was said today.The club's incredible football adventure has put Swansea on a world sporting stage and the latest chapter was written at Wembley.
Swansea Council Leader David Phillips, who was at the cup final against Bradford City, said: "The eyes of the sporting world were on Wembley and it's our club which will be the toast of football. I want to pay tribute to Michael Laudrup, his playing staff and the backroom staff for this magnificent achievement.
"Credit must also go to Huw Jenkins and the Swans board for the way they have steered the club to British football's top table and to a tremendous Capital One Cup Final in the club's centenary year.
"The Swans fans were fantastic and built on their growing reputation as some of the most loyal and passionate supporters in the country. They can now look forward to a European adventure that not so long ago would have been little more than a dream.
"The past few years have been a footballing fairy story for the Swans. A decade ago Swansea was on the verge of dropping out of the Football League. But now this club is in the Premier League and is looking forward to European competition next year."
The Swans' presence in football's richest league competition generated a £58million economic lift and hundreds of jobs for the city in its first season alone. Visits from fans of clubs from across Europe are hoped to add even more to the economic feelgood factor next season.
Councillor Phillips said the council's decision to fund the development of the Liberty Stadium had paid off handsomely and it would provide a fitting and attractive venue for visiting European teams.
He said: "The council is committed to making the most of Swansea's growing status as a City of Sport.
"One of the most significant features of Swansea's time in the Premier League has been the warmth of the welcome visitors have received at the Liberty Stadium and in the city as a whole.
"It's been a talking point among visiting fans and local businesses alike and I'm sure this will continue both in the Premier League and the Europa League next season when we can look forward to hosting visitors from across Europe."
Councillor Nick Bradley, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "The Swans are putting our city on the map, not just in the UK, but across Europe and the rest of the world too. Their achievements and the style of football they play means interest in Swansea has never been higher, and that's potentially great news for the local economy as their stock continues to rise and rise." Reported by This is 1 day ago.