Luke Williams | To win a game against a top side in the division is the next step for us

Luke Williams has challenged his side to take the next step and knock over one of the Championship’s promotion contenders when they host Sunderland this afternoon (3pm).

The Swans host the Black Cats having been unbeaten over their last four games, taking eight points from a possible 12 in that run.

Swansea have produced strong performances when facing the division’s fancied sides, but suffered agonising defeats against Sheffield United, Burnley and Leeds United.

Williams believes his side are now showing a strong consistency in their performance levels, but he wants them to make sure they get their rewards when they take on a Sunderland team who have been among the Championship pacesetters all season.

“We have had some near-misses with teams in play-off positions, and it’s another marker for us,” said the Swans boss.

“If we want to be the team we have to become, then we have to perform well against the top teams in the division. We have ticked that box, but it’s about getting results against them too.

“If we can do that, then you don’t have to be a mathematician to figure out what that can mean.

“But we know this will be a hard test for us. Sunderland are a good team who are playing well and with belief.

“They are going to be a good side throughout the campaign, so we expect a tough game.”