Monk backs Swansea to challenge ‘fantastic’ Arsenal

Rob Conlon
Garry Monk: Shown the door at Swansea

Garry Monk: Shown the door at Swansea

Swansea City manager Garry Monk is confident his side have the quality to make things difficult against Arsenal on Saturday.

Monk was reportedly under pressure earlier this month and was forced to deny “farcical” reports he had missed training, but the Welsh club managed to secure their first win since August by beating Aston Villa last time out – a result which led to the sacking of Tim Sherwood.

And Monk has backed his players to continue their good form against the Gunners – who they beat twice last season – although he admits they will need to be at their best.

“They have had a fantastic start to the season. But we’ve had some good games against them in recent years and had two good results against them last season,” he said.

“We know that when we are at our best we can give anyone a game in this league and we’ll need to be at that level on Saturday. If we do that we are in with a chance of getting the result we want.”

The 36-year-old, who guided the Swans to their best ever league placing last season, insists his belief in his squad never wavered, despite reports there was tension in the Swansea camp.

“Each team will have a period where they will suffer and its about how you deal with that. Winning games obviously breeds confidence but this group is very strong,” he added.

“Our effort and commitment is always there and its about continuing to do the right things and working hard on the training ground.”

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