Rodgers outlines Premier League challenge

Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers is under no illusions as to the challenges his club faces in the English Premier League.

The Swans became the first Welsh side to reach the Premier League after gaining promotion via the Championship playoffs at the end of last season.

Reaching the top-flight completes a fairytale story for the Welsh side, who nearly dropped out of the entire Football League just eight seasons ago.

But Rodgers knows the hard work is only just beginning.

“It’s the most competitive league in the world,” he said.

“I’m just happy that I was able to help bring that football to Wales, in particular to Swansea. There’s no doubt that it’s going to be really tough for us. Certainly, we’re going to give it our best and continue to play how we play.”

“It’s important that we’re creative and attacking in our football. The difference in the Premier League is that when you lose the ball there’s a better quality that can hurt you.”

Swansea have taken a measured approach to strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign, having lost goalkeeper Dorus de Vries (Wolves) and midfielder Darren Pratley (Bolton) after their contracts expired.

One-cap Portugal goalkeeper Jose Moreira joins from Benfica, while Rogers splashed out a club-record 3.5 million pounds for Watford striker Danny Graham. Tottenham defender Steven Caulker joins on a one-year loan deal.

Rodgers’ men face a tough start to life in the top flight, travelling to Manchester City for their opener as well as to Arsenal and Chelsea inside their first six games of the season.

“They’re all tough games,” Rodgers said.

“It’s obviously a start away at a club that isn’t even in comparison with ours in terms of budget.”

“I think last year, looking at the Premier League, a lot of teams in the middle to bottom took a lot of points off the top teams.”

“I think (the big teams) be stronger next year. It’s going to be very, very competitive and every game will be a cup final for us. We understand that – home or away – every game will be tough.”