Missing out on a play-off spot may have been a disappointing climax to our first Championship campaign in quarter of a century, but Swansea City have certainly earned many plaudits over the course of this season for the exploits in both league and cup competitions.

Rival managers often referred to Roberto Martinez's charges as the best they had faced whether the game ended in a win, draw or defeat for their side, while footballers past and present compared the Swans' fluid style of play to that of football superpowers Arsenal and Barcelona.

And instead of bringing you a general round-up of the season we thought about offering something a little bit different and look at what other individuals had to say about us

"Swansea are a really good side. They really pass the ball well and at times they embarrassed us in midfield."

Former Charlton Athletic boss, Alan Pardew, following the 2-0 defeat at The Valley back in August

"Full credit to Swansea, they played some magnificent football and created a lot of good chances. They will acquit themselves well in the Championship, I have no doubt about that. They have a fantastic stadium and a fantastic set-up. It's built for the next level and I wish them all the best."

Hull City manager Phil Brown after his side was knocked out in the second round of the Carling Cup

"Swansea played in the identical vein as Arsenal.

I thought the football that was played was a good advert for Welsh football and Swansea fully deserved to win."

Ex-Wales international Ian Rush complements the Swans after beating Cardiff in the Carling Cup

"It was a credit to Swansea that they made us look ineffective. They played excellently. I said in the week that they were the best footballing side I've seen this season and I've seen nothing to change my mind.

They out-played us in midfield and we never really got into our way of playing."

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish after the 0-0 draw at St. Andrews after Christmas

"You look back to last season at Hull coming through and having an irresistible run. Swansea are capable of doing that. It's a really positive time there - and compliments to Roberto and the way his team play. Roberto has got a team who are playing really well at the moment, getting good results and are a credit to him."

Steve Coppell following Reading's 2-0 loss in January

"The way they play it's almost like Barcelona, utilising the wide players very wide when we play with a narrow four to try and keep it tight."

Wales midfielder Simon Davies after the FA Cup tie with Fulham in February

"They have been outstanding. I watched them play Fulham in the original FA Cup tie and they were different class — it was as good as it gets."

Paul Merson before the replay at Craven Cottage

"It was a point against a quality team and that is the encouraging thing. We have played teams in and around us but Swansea, positionally in the league, are probably one of the best teams we have faced."

Nigel Clough after his side surrendered a two-goal lead at Pride Park in March

"Ask anyone in the league and Swansea are the best footballing team. This time of the season, and with so much on the game, the last team you want to play is Swansea. They pass it and keep the ball really well, so it was important for us not to get anxious when we didn't have the ball."

Sheffield United player/coach Gary Speed after the final away game of the season