CHAT FOOTBALL FORUM

SWANSEA City have been backed for Championship survival by former Manchester United, Barcelona and Espanyol star Jordi Cruyff.

The Dutchman, son of legendary footballer Johan Cruyff, first met Señor Martinez when the pair were stationed in Spain learning their trade and they've remained close friends ever since.

The 34 year old midfielder is currently plying his trade in the Ukraine, but he's confessed to keeping a close eye on Swansea City's League One winning campaign as well as regular contact with el Manager himself, through phone and e-Mail.

He was able to attend two games of Swansea's whistle stop tour of Spain, catching the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Espanyol, and 1-0 victory over Palamos.

And in case of an SOS, Cruyff has even given Martinez his Dad's phone number should the young manager need the advice of one of footballs all time greatest players- not that he thinks he'll ever need it, of course.

Jordi Cruyff said:

"The door is always open for Roberto whenever he wants to speak with my dad about something.

"You have always got to keep learning, but Roberto has won many more games than he has lost since he became a manager and I don't think there are many tips he needs.

"Now he and the team have a new test in a new division and they will have to see how things go.

"But I know Roberto is capable of handling any pressure, and he is capable of seeing things on the pitch and making a tactical switch to change a game.

"It's a new challenge this season for Swansea, but I have no doubt that Roberto will do well.

"Roberto has always been football crazy.

"He has always had it in him to be a manager and he has adapted to English football better than any of the rest of us.

"I remember when he got the chance with Swansea. He still had a couple of years on his contract at Chester.

''He didn't really have doubts, but he did say 'What would you do?' I told him it was destiny. I know how much he loves playing football and I'm sure he would have liked to carry on.

"But his feelings for Swansea and the possibilities he saw at the club outweighed all that."


On the Espanyol defeat:

"It was difficult against Espanyol.

"Both sides played the same system, but the difference is that Espanyol have been playing it for 10 years and Swansea have been playing it for 18 months.

"Swansea had a brilliant season last year and, even though Roberto has a very young team, I think they are very hungry and I think they will be all right."


On Martinez' United link:

"Roberto has been asking for loyalty from his players, and it would be a little bit strange if he was the one who left.

"Even if United came in, I don't think Roberto would consider it."

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Martinez is gaining the respect he deserves

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Sounds as though he is very well respected.

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He plays football the right way and thats why he is such a big fan favourite here at swansea

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