Courageous defending and a never-say-die attitude are usually the attributes necessary for a newly promoted Championship club to survive relegation from the Premier League. Yet Swansea City have continued to prove all season that they don't need to play 'ugly' to gain all three points. The Swans are currently nested in 12th position and are just four points behind eighth placed Liverpool.
Brendan Rodgers has been tipped by many for manager of the year, after his Swansea side continue to dazzle opponents and spectators alike with their exciting brand of football. Emphatically beating Arsenal 3-2 at the Liberty Stadium is just one of many magic moments their faithful support has witnessed in their debut season in the top division.
To watch arguably the most attractive team in England, be outplayed is certainly a rarity, highlighting the phenomenal job Rodgers has done since taking charge in July 2010. Furthermore, the victory over Arsenal was not the first commendable display by City this season. They have beaten the likes of Stoke and Aston Villa and have drawn against bigger opponents in Liverpool and Tottenham respectively.
A notable factor contributing to Swansea's latest impressive displays is their British talent running through the squad. With Scott Sinclair, Joe Allen, Nathan Dyer and Danny Graham all excelling, don't be surprised to see one of these core players donning the 'interesting' strip of the British Olympic football team this summer.
In the majority of their 11 victories this season, they have been worthy winners, gaining their deserved three points through stylish play. Rodgers has spoken of his admiration for Barcelona's attacking football on more than one occasion, and has used the Spanish champions as a blueprint for his own sides success.
And if the 39 year old is able to persuade his brightest talents to stay this summer, then the sky is the limit for these highflying Swans.
