Swansea have proven that a promoted side does not have to relinquish its principles and philosophy to survive the leap to the top flight. The Swans have ended their first ever season in the Premier League in 11th position with only goal difference separating from a top ten finish under the stewardship of Brendan Rodgers. In the wake of their playoff win over Reading last season to become the first Welsh side in Premier League era, the Swans prepared for the season with a number of signings, among which Danny Graham in the attack and Michel Vorm in goal. Both players were to prove instrumental in securing Swansea's survival and prosperity, with Graham netting a highly respectable 12 league goals and Vorm keeping out many more. The Swans had a slow start, losing their first game away at Manchester City by 4-0 but soon made the Liberty Stadium a fortress, only losing once to defending champions Manchester United in their first ten home games. They struggled, however, to make many inroads away from the Liberty Stadium and had to wait till the New Year and a win at Villa Park to celebrate their first away win. A reference win at home over Arsenal soon followed and Brendan Rodgers proved a shrewd buyer on the January transfer market, bringing Icelandic playmaker Gylfi Sigurdsson, who immediately settled in the side and gave them an edge that was lacking before infield. Rodgers kept his faith in a positive set up throughout the season, with widemen Dyer and Sinclair looking to link up with Graham in the attack. The ever industrious Leon Britton and Joe Allen ensured a smooth transition between the frontmen and a strong backline with Ashley Williams and Spurs loanee Steven Caulker imposing themselves over the season. Angel Rangel and Neil Taylor remained first choice for the full back slots which meant there was little rotation in the side. The second half of the season was a little less consistent with a number of home defeats, which were made up for by more away wins. The Swans had a difficult run of three consecutive defeats in early April but bounced back well in the final furlong to end up in 11th place, with a 1-0 win over Liverpool to finish the season at the Liberty Stadium in front of their fans.
