Adaptability crucial for Swansea City at Barnsley

Swansea City head coach Steve Cooper wants his side to show their ability to adapt as he acknowledges today’s clash with Barnsley will be something of a step into the unknown.

The Swans face a Tykes side with caretaker boss Adam Murray in charge following the dismissal of Daniel Stendel during the international break.

Cooper admits the timing of the change means the game could throw up a few surprises as the hosts – promoted from League One last term – look to record their second win of the season.

But he wants his side to focus on what they can bring to the contest at Oakwell, and be ready to deal with whatever comes their way in South Yorkshire.

“We have to be really focused on ourselves and be ready for whatever Barnsley throw at us,” said Cooper.

“It could be a number of things, but what we do know is they are a young, hungry team who work really hard even when results have not gone their way.

“When sides change manager there is an element of the unknown and, if we are going to be the team we want to be, we have to be able to adapt to situations.

“That may be a change of formation, or a change of style. Whether it’s a change of attitude or a change of mentality, we have to focus on ourselves and make sure we are ready to go with that.

“We have talked about that all week with the players, and it’s been a chance to work on areas we want to continue to do well at, and areas we want to improve on.

“Our focus is what we bring to the table in games, and Saturday will be no different.”