Garry Monk looking for positive reaction
12th December
Garry Monk is hoping for a positive reaction from his side when they host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday (4pm).
The Swans welcome Mauricio Pochettino's side to the Liberty Stadium aiming for a return to winning ways following last weekend's disappointing 3-1 defeat at West Ham.
Monk's men were unable to perform at their fluent best at the Boleyn Ground, despite going into the fixture having lost just once in their last six games.
But while the Swans sit in eighth position in the Premier League table - two places above Sunday's opponents - Monk is hoping his side can bounce back at the first time of asking against a strong Spurs side.
"It was the first time that we didn't reach the levels we've set ourselves this season," the Swans boss reflected upon last weekend's defeat.
"We need to react this weekend, put on a positive performance and put to bed last weekend's display.
"But we know it will be a very difficult game. Spurs have a very big and talented squad, so whatever team they put out will be a quality side.
"We're expecting a tough test. When you play against any side with that power, it's going to be difficult.
"We've had some good games against them in the past, especially at the Liberty. It will be a game between two attacking sides who like to play good football.
"We want the three points, so hopefully Sunday is the day when we beat them."
Despite having a fully fit squad at his disposal for Sunday's fixture, one player Monk won't be able to call upon is Lukasz Fabianski, who is suspended following the red card he received at West Ham.
The Swans' appeal against the decision was dismissed by the FA this week, but Monk believes his side are in capable hands in his replacement Gerhard Tremmel.
"We're disappointed with the decision, because we thought we had a case," said Monk. "But the panel dismissed it, and we have to live with it.
"We're disappointed for Fab, but we will have Gerhard to come in to replace him.
"Gerhard is a very good professional and a good person. He wants to play games, and this is a chance for him. He has the capability, which he has shown already this season."
