Opposition Focus Series: Burnley

As Roberto Martinez prepares for a tough season ahead in the Coca Cola Championship we will at Vital Swansea turn our attentions to our new opposition. Kicking off our "Opposition focus" series will be Burnley who finished 13th in the championship last season. 'Turfmanphil' of Vital Burnley has taken time out to answer a few questions on the up and coming 2008-09 championship campaign.

1) Name?

Turfmanphil

2) How Long have you been supporting your club?

From about the age of 5 (1959!)

3) How Do you rate your chances this season?

Ever hopeful of reaching the play-offs, but depends on signings and final squad size. Midtable mediocrity if we have only 22-25 players.

4) What do you think of Swansea City can they cause an upset?

Pleased you made it, could be a baptism of fire. Hope you follow the likes of Bristol City & Colchester in their first season and not Luton, Southend and Colchester (this season). You could be a Barnsley or Blackpool. Midtable & consolidation

5) Who do you think is your clubs and Swansea's biggest threat?

Those with big squads and big money from parachute payments. Typically the yo-yo relegated Prem clubs.

6) What places can you recommend visiting fans go to i.e. pubs, hotels and places to visit?

Suggest you don't wear colours in town centre pubs and avoid them if you can. The Cricket Field Social Club by side of Turf Moor is good for away fans with parking facilities. The Sparrow Hawk pub seems friendly enough and I have seen away fans in there (last lot were Bluebirds! lol). They do great cheap grub on match days, choice of about 6-8 real ales and one a special price of £1-80/pint. Some rough areas in Burnley, but some interesting Industrial Heritage stuff by the canal.

7) Any other thoughts?

Be good to play a different team, wish you luck for next season (but not too much when you play the Clarets).

This Friday's "Opposition focus" will be our arch rivals Cardiff City.