What does Swansea’s Capital One Cup win mean for the club?

By Chris Linnell

Swansea City made history on Sunday by winning the club’s first major silverware with a 5-0 victory over Bradford City at Wembley. No one was sure what to expect of the League Cup final. Romantics perhaps hoped for League Two giant-killers Bradford to upset the bigger side; Swans fans were nervous they might do just that, and neutrals mostly just wanted to see a good game.

However, the result fairly demonstrated the difference between the two sides. The 5-0 win brings Swansea their first major silverware in a century of existence.

Obviously this is a fantastic achievement for the Welsh side, but what benefits does it bring in the long term?

European football in the 2013/14 campaign

The prospect of Europa league participation next season is a huge positive for Swansea and this factor alone brings its own benefits.

Ability to attract higher calibre players

European football will undoubtedly attract higher calibre players from all around Europe. Last summer Michael Laudrup made a number of clever signings from across the continent. The likes of Michu, Hernandez and De Guzman have all starred for the Swans so far this season in both league and cup fixtures.

European qualification will likely give Swansea more scope in the upcoming transfer window. This, alongside Laudrup’s eye for a bargain could result in a number of top quality players moving to the Liberty City stadium In July.

Michu now has a real reason to stay

Star signing, Michu, has been linked with a move away from the club since the start of the season.  15 goals in 25 league games says it all, the Swans will be desperate to keep the Spaniard in South Wales come the end of the season.

Despite recently agreeing a new contract with the club, Michu could still leave Swansea if they receive a big enough offer for the player.

However, the prospect of European football and the feeling of success following the club’s league cup win will have made him very reluctant to leave. Laudrup clearly has a long term project for the club and Michu will very much want to be a part of it.

Cup confirms Swansea are a quality side

Swansea’s route to the final was by no means easy. Laudrup’s side faced Liverpool away, and then convincingly beat Chelsea over two legs. Despite a ‘nice’ final, the team showed their true class throughout the competition.

It’s incredible to think how far Swansea have progressed within the last 10 years. In the last game of the 2002-03 season, the Swans beat Hull City 4-2 to keep their place in the Football League. Since, the club has risen from the fourth tier to the Premier League – a remarkable achievement. To consider the club are now playing for a place in Europe is unbelievable.

Please feel free to comment with your thoughts and opinions.