As predicted both sides have gone with their strongest options for today’s south Wales derby. There’s no real surprises with on form strikers Joel Piroe and Kieffer Moore as the main dangermen in either attack. Michael Obafemi failed a fitness test this morning.

This early kick off illustrates the south Wales divide like no other comparison. Here are the teams for the latest battle between two cities where rivalry manifests itself in every part of life in the principality.

Today’s teams
Swansea City: Ben Hamer, Kyle Naughton, Ryan Bennett, Ryan Manning, Ethan Laird, Matt Grimes (capt), Flynn Downes, Korey Smith, Jamie Paterson, Jake Bidwell, Joel Piroe.

Subs: Steven Benda, Ben Cabango, Joel Latibeaudiere, Liam Walsh, Olivier Ntcham, Morgan Whittaker, Liam Cullen.

Cardiff City: Smithies; McGuinness, Morrison (C), Flint, Nelson, Brown; Pack, Ralls; Bacuna, Giles; Moore

Subs: Phillips, Ng, Bagan, Vaulks, Colwill, Harris, Collins

Russell Martin on the derby
“The build up has been for the last two weeks because of the international break,” said the Swans boss. “Everyone talks about it, and the best thing is that everyone supports Swansea City here.This means a lot to everyone, and we’re aware of that. We have to make sure the players don’t feel the weight of that pressure — it’s about them going out and expressing themselves.“Any derby game you have an interest in, the emotion can take over and they’re exciting to watch, sometimes they can be cagey. “We say it to the guys, they have a real opportunity to show a lot of people how they can handle a big occasion. The better you handle occasions like this the more chance you have of showing people what you’re capable of. “They know what it means, we’ve spoken a lot about it. The game is worth three points in the league, but for supporters, players and staff it’s worth so much more. I’ve been involved in many derbies as a supporter and player, and they’re massive occasions.I’m really looking forward to the game and seeing the stadium full. Derbies don’t have the same edge without supporters, and everyone can’t wait to hearing the Jack Army roar.”

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Photograph Swansea Independent

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