Luke Williams | It's a tough challenge, but one we are looking forward to

Luke Williams insists Southampton's tough time in the Premier League will not be a factor when Swansea City try and cause an FA Cup third-round upset at St Mary's this afternoon (4.30pm).

The Swans head to the south coast having gone unbeaten in seven of their last 10 Championship outings, including picking up seven points over the festive period.

Southampton, promoted to the top-flight via the play-offs last season, currently sit bottom of the Premier League with six points from 20 games, and recently appointed Croatian Ivan Juric to succeed Russell Martin.

Williams has no doubt about the size of the task the Swans face, but wants his side to back up some of their positive recent showings.

"It's very difficult to assess the approach of the new manager after so few games," he said.

"But it is not difficult to assess the quality of the players, I don't think there is any doubt about that.

"The Premier League is so tough, it is no disgrace to be having a hard time in that division, and no-one should be questioning the quality of their players.

"We are fully aware of that even if there are a few unknowns.

"We know they were an outstanding Championship team last season and I would expect this is a game they are looking forward to for a change of pace, if you like.

"They will be looking to go out and perform, and I hope they will be facing a team who want to do the same.

"We will be picking a team that we think has the best chance of winning the game. Of course, we will factor in player workload and many other things.

"But we are not prioritising this less than other games. We are looking forward to it.

"We have had some very good performances later, it's important we try and continue that."