By Stephen Ware
South Wales Evening Post

Skipper Garry Monk has assured fans he is under no illusions as to the importance of Swansea's Carling Cup clash with Cardiff.

Of the current squad only Kristian O'Leary has faced Swansea's arch-rivals in the past, featuring in the side's last league meeting at Ninian Park in 1999 and an FAW Premier Cup final defeat on the ground in 2002.

Swansea have since climbed two divisions, aided by a foreign legion of stars.

But despite their far-flung flavour, Monk insists Swansea's players are well aware what's at stake when Wales's top two clash later this month.

"We can't wait," he said. "It'll be a first taste of the local derby for almost all the players and it's definitely one we don't want to lose," he said.

"It's going to be class. It's Christmas come early for the fans. We couldn't have asked for a better draw."

That draw dominated supporters' conversations at Swansea's 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

It will be the first time in nine years the clubs have met in meaningful competition, and that is a prospect Monk is relishing.

"I've heard about it for a long time since I've been down here. I've played in a few derbies elsewhere and they've been fun, but I think this one will have a real edge to it.

"I've played in the Sheffield derby, for Torquay in the South West derby and for Southampton against Portsmouth, but this one will be extra special."

However, the captain may have to wait for a chance to cross swords with Cardiff if manager Roberto Martinez continues with the rotation policy he has adopted in the competition's previous two rounds.

The Swans boss made eight changes from the side that had defeated Plymouth in the league three days earlier when Hull visited the Liberty last week in the Carling Cup second round. And there is every indication another reshuffle may be on the cards.

"The league's our main objective, but you want to play every game. Hopefully I'll be part of that team because it'll go down in history," said Monk.

"The derby is all the fans down here talk about, both sets of fans. When it comes around it'll be great to experience it. All the squad will want to play in it, definitely."