Ryan Bennett and Conor Hourihane in contention for FA Cup tie

Ryan Bennett is in contention to return from a hamstring injury for Swansea City’s FA Cup clash with Nottingham Forest.

The defender has been sidelined by a hamstring injury since the goalless draw with Reading in December, but has returned to training this week and is available to face the Reds in the fourth-round tie at the Liberty Stadium.

“Ryan is back on the grass, whether he starts I am still not sure, we will see how it goes on Friday,” said head coach Steve Cooper.

“But he has had a couple of days of training which is good news.

“His week changed for the better with the Blackburn game being called off, as we have trained a bit more and he could be included in that.”

Cooper also confirmed that loan signing Conor Hourihane will be in the mix for a Swansea debut, following his arrival from Aston Villa on Wednesday.

The Republic of Ireland international did not feature for his parent club in the third round, meaning he is not cup-tied.

“He will be in the mix, when you join a new club the first thing you want to do is get your kit on and get out there and get going,” added Cooper.

“How much he does will depend, but he is in contention and he’s not cup-tied which gives us the opportunity and luxury to do that.”

Ben Hamer is cup-tied after playing for Huddersfield in the last round, while Steven Benda, Brandon Cooper and Tivonge Rushesha are long-term absentees.