Swansea City have missed out on the chance to return to the Premier League after falling to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Brentford in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.

An Ivan Toney penalty and a strike from Emiliano Marcondes midway through the first half proved enough to see the Bees through, with the Swans reduced to 10 men when Jay Fulton was dismissed after the break.

It was a hugely disappointing day for the 6,000 or so fans inside Wembley, with the Swans now facing a fourth year outside the top flight, with a potentially crucial summer ahead.

Wembley finals are always emotional occasions, and the weight of the disappointment ultimately proved too much for some of the Swansea players and fans.

As the full-time whistle blew, a tearful Matt Grimes was seen being consoled by veteran winger Wayne Routledge, who was forced out of the game due to an ACL picked up in the semi-final with Barnsley.

He wasn’t the only one, with Ben Cabango also appearing to receive a comforting word from Bees striker Ivan Toney

Andre Ayew was also seen saluting the Jack Army, in what could be his last game for the club. The Ghanaian is one several stars that is likely to move on this summer, with the Swans facing a potentially significant period of upheaval over the coming months.

Indeed, there might well be questions over boss Steve Cooper’s future given the links with a move away.

For those who do remain at the club next season, bouncing back from this defeat will be absolutely vital.