Read Adam Baker's big match preview blog, only on bcfc.co.uk.
OPPOSITION
Swansea are a very different opposition to the one City faced all the way back in September at the Liberty Stadium in a goalless draw. At that point they were struggling to score and had only won one league match in seven. Since they have stormed up the table and are on the verge of cementing a place in the play-offs with fellow Welsh club Cardiff City. The Swans have stuttered of late, picking up just one win in seven. They lost 5-1 at Blackpool, and were recently beaten 2-1 in the last minute by Cardiff. Swansea have a very cosmopolitan feel to their squad - including Spainards, Dutchmen, an Argentine and Austrian - along with a healthy smattering of English, Welsh and Scottish players. Shefki Kuqi's arrival from Crystal Palace has bolstered their strike force, and Dave Cotterill - signed from Sheffield United - is another big threat. Lee Trundle is unable to play against his parent club.
MANAGER
Paulo Sousa took over in the summer following Roberto Martinez's move to the Premier League with Wigan Athletic. The only previous managerial experience in England for the Portuguese boss came in charge of QPR for five months. He also helped coach the Portugal Under-15s in the 90s, before being made assistant boss to the full team in 2008 under Carlos Queiroz. Sousa has a three-year contract at the Liberty Stadium and much hope is placed on his shoulders.
FORM
WLDLDL
REFEREE
Mike Dean from Wirral. The Premier League official has been punished for his poor display in the Manchester United v Chelsea match last week by dropping down into the Championship for a weekend. He will take charge of City for the first time since April 2007 when he oversaw their 2-0 win over Yeovil Town at Ashton Gate - in the club's promotion season in League One. He took charge of Swansea last season for their 2-2 away draw with Welsh rivals Cardiff City. This season he has taken charge of 36 games, showing 129 yellow cards and seven reds.
ODDS
City begin slight favourites in this clash with odds of 17/10, compared to Swansea's 13/8 price for a win. The club official betting partners, bet365.com, have the draw at 9/4.
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