Boss: We'll fight for victory

Carlos Carvalhal has told his players that being competitive is key as they get set for another key Premier League game at Newcastle United this weekend.

Carvalhal acknowledges that it may be a while before Swansea City play with his footballing philosophy.

But the Portuguese says his players have delivered in each of his three games so far – and he wants more of the same at St James’ Park.

“Maybe I cannot make them play with my philosophy yet, but have we played the way I want to play in this moment? Yes,” Carvalhal said.

“In all three games, the players have played exactly as I wanted in that moment.

“The most important thing right now is that we are competitive in every game and we have been so far.

“At Newcastle we will try to use all the good things we have at the moment and we will try to hide the weaknesses we have.”

The Swans take on a Magpies side whose form has improved in recent weeks after a difficult spell.

Rafael Benitez’s men started the season well – beating the Swans along the way – but then endured a painful run of only one win in 13 games.

Last season’s Championship winners have though taken seven points from their last four league games and triumphed in the cup last time out against Luton.

“They are a good side with good players and good organisation, and they will have a good crowd behind them,” Carvalhal said.

“It’s not a decisive game for us, but of course it’s a very important game. All the games are important for us now.

“We will try our best to make sure we can win the game. We will always fight for three points – we don’t go anywhere to try to draw.

“We have respect for the quality they have, but we will fight for the win. Let’s see what happens at the end.”