Dorus De Vries was looking forward to his first Welsh derby when he proclaimed "Bring on Cardiff"

The Big Dutchman will be between the sticks in a caludron of noise on Tuesday night as the Swans and Cardiff go head to head for the first time in almost ten years.

It was 1999 that the two sides last met in English competition - they did meet in 2002 in the FAW Premier Cup final at Ninian Park - a game that Cardiff won 1-0 thanks to a Graham Kavanagh goal.

And De Vries is looking forward to sampling his first Welsh derby - the first of what he hopes will be three such occasions for him this season.  Much of that though depends on whether Roberto is successful in bringing in a keeper he hopes can push De Vries for the first team place.

But for now, there are more pressing matters on Dorus' mind, including the big game tomorrow night.  He told the Evening Post "It is going to be a very, very big game. The supporters have been talking about it for a long time

"I spoke with supporters a few weeks ago and they say they don't mind the rest of the games so long as we win this one. That's how much it means to them. I am really looking forward to it. The supporters will make sure we are at our best and I'm sure it will be the best atmosphere I will experience at the Liberty.

"It will be a special game — hopefully we can deliver the right result for our supporters.

"The gaffer keeps everyone on their toes with his selection. But we have a big squad and there's a lot of games coming up so everyone is likely to get their chance at some point," he said.

"I played a few derbies in Holland for Den Haag against Ajax. They were massive and the supporters live for them.

"Fortunately I had some good results and it's a great feeling when you're on the winning side. It can be the worst feeling if you're on the other side.

"The tension was huge on the pitch in those games and it gives you and the game that extra edge.

"Hopefully all the supporters will be sensible and enjoy the atmosphere of a big match."

Photo: Action Images

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