Luke Williams | We want to be ready to go toe to toe with anyone

Head coach Luke Williams insists Swansea City enter the new Championship campaign ready to go toe to toe with allcomers as they get set for the big kick-off at Middlesbrough on Saturday (12.30pm).

The Swans travel to the Riverside at the outset of Williams’ first full season in charge, having overseen a positive conclusion to the 2023-24 campaign.

They face a Boro side fancied by many to be among the promotion contenders, 

“We have expectations as a group. The players expect me to prepare them to go toe to toe, and I expect them to not be afraid of anyone,” said the Swans boss.

“We have a mutual respect between staff and players and that is how we are approaching the season.

“I hope we have improved from where we were last season, I know that might not be the most exciting answer you have ever heard but I really hope we have improved and people can see that.

“That is what I would like to hear the supporters say, that they recognise the group is moving forward in a positive direction and that they feel optimistic and excited about the team.

“If we have that, we will know we are on the right track.

"We have young guys and it would be great to see some real optimism that this group can grow together and become a really good Championship team.

“We want to do better and it’s also about the way we do it. 

“We want to play consistently well. Sometimes you can be more or less fortunate in football, we know that is a reality, but we want to play at a higher level consistently.”

The Swans have been put through their paces during a gruelling pre-season and Williams has praised the efforts of his squad.

And, whatever follows in the months ahead, he is clear that no-one should be questioning the attitude and application of his squad.

“It is impossible to question how hard the players are working, and have worked, during pre-season,” he added.

“It is impossible to question whether this group is ambitious, I will not accept anybody saying anyone here is going through the motions or not committed to the club.

“I won’t accept anybody saying the players are not being worked hard by myself and the staff.

"Whether we are a brilliant team, or an entertaining team or what anyone wants to say because everyone has a different view, those parts are not in doubt."