Midfielder explains how Swansea can hurt Arsenal in FA Cup clash

Swansea's Jonathan de Guzman in action against Aston Villa. Photo: PA

Thursday, January 3, 2013
8:00 AM

Swansea’s Jonathan de Guzman believes his side’s 2-0 win over Arsenal at the Emirates can inspire them to another upset when they meet again in the FA Cup thid round this weekend.

The former Feyenoord and Mallorca midfielder, on-loan at the Liberty Stadium from Villarreal, is looking forward to making his debut in the competition.

The 25-year-old Dutchman has already enjoyed a good cup run with Swansea this season, helping Michael Laudrup’s side to reach the last four of the Capital One Cup, where they will face Chelsea as they chase a first appearance at a major Wembley final.

Facing Arsenal on Sunday will hold few fears for Swansea, who famously defeated the Gunners’ 3-2 at home last January, before securing a 2-0 victory courtesy of a Michu brace at the Emirates Stadium in December.

De Guzman said: “It’s very exciting for me to be involved in the FA Cup for the first time and it could not have been against many bigger teams than Arsenal.

“It’s a famous competition and everyone is glued to the TV at this time of year and everyone is excited.

“We can take confidence from having beaten them recently. We seem to play better against teams who like to play football because that leaves spaces for us to play our game.

“With us having the home advantage as well, hopefully we can progress.”