Alan Sheehan | We know how tough a test it is, but you have to rise to the challenge

Alan Sheehan believes a trip to Elland Road represents the toughest test in the Championship, but it’s a challenge he wants Swansea City to rise to this afternoon (3pm).

The Swans resume Championship hostilities following the international break with a trip to Yorkshire to face the side who entered this round of fixtures as league leaders.

Leeds are looking to take a step closer to a Premier League return, while the Swans are looking to bounce back after defeats to Watford and Burnley.

The home side will start as firm favourites, but Sheehan has reminded his side their fate remains in their own hands as they head into the final run-in, and wants them to meet the test in front of them head on.

“It’s a challenge obviously. We’re coming into a really difficult period and we now have the toughest game you’re going to have in the Championship, so you have to be ready for that challenge,” said the caretaker head coach.

“Everybody is fighting for their lives down there, but I think most importantly it is in our hands what we do. 

“Every game in the Championship provides a different test and poses different questions of you. We have to respect it, be aware of it and be ready.

“They’re a top team for this league. It’s probably the toughest game of the season, it’s going to be one hell of a challenge.

“They’ve got quality all over the field, high level players for this division. We have to understand the challenge and bring the best version of ourselves.”

For Sheehan, the trip to Elland Road sees him face a former club. The Irishman was on the books at Elland Road between January 2008 and the summer of 2010.

He has fond memories of that period on his career, but such reminisces will have to wait until the serious business is complete.

“I had a good time there on loan under Gary McAllister, we lost in the play-off final,” he said.

“I had some good times under him. It’s a massive football club with really passionate fans. They’re a team who I wish much success, but only after Saturday.”