Preview: Swans v St Gallen

The Swans will be looking to maintain their place at the top of Group A when they entertain St Gallen on Thursday (8.05pm).

Michael Laudrup's men welcome the Swiss side to the Liberty on matchday two of the Europa League group stage.

The Swans currently sit top of Group A after that resounding 3-0 victory against Valencia in the first round of matches, while tonight's opponents St Gallen are second after overcoming Russian side Kuban Krasnodar.

The visitors are currently fourth in their domestic league, but are unbeaten in their last seven outings.

They reached the Europa League group stages after a 5-3 aggregate win over Spartak Moscow in the play-offs.

The Swans will be without captain Ashley Williams (ankle), while Pablo Hernandez and Garry Monk are also unlikely to feature.

Hernandez is back in training after missing the last five games with a thigh injury, while Angel Rangel will be assessed after missing the defeat to Arsenal with an ankle problem.

Swans boss Michael Laudrup: "I've seen their game against Kuban and against Spartak Moscow in the play-off. They don't have the big stars but they really work hard. They were underdogs against Spartak, a side who have played in the Champions League.

"They drew in Switzerland and were 1-0 down after 51 seconds in the second leg and were then outplayed for 20 minutes.

"But suddenly they went 3-1 up, so it shows they have a lot character, it will be a difficult game and a game where even if we're doing well we have to keep an eye on the spirit in their squad."

St Gallen boss Jeff Saibene: "For us this a huge challenge. We are playing an established Premier League team. It was a surprise (Swansea's win in Valencia). That was a very convincing win and it shows the strength of the team. 

"When you look at the result, it shows the level that Swansea are playing at. Swansea are just about favourites for the group. 

"But in the Europa League Group Stage, it is unpredictable. Anyone can beat any team. 

"We don't want to come here and hide - we are going to go out and give our all."