Jack Cork: International feel-good factor could benefit Swansea City

9th September

Jack Cork believes the feel-good factor from Swansea City's international stars can help maintain the club's unbeaten streak this weekend.
Jonjo Shelvey and Gylfi Sigurdsson featured as both England and Iceland booked their places at Euro 2016, while Ashley Williams and Neil Taylor edged Wales closer to qualification.
Ki Sung-Yueng and Andre Ayew also captained South Korea and Ghana to victories during the international window, and Cork believes the positivity gained during national duties could aid the Swans when they visit newly-promoted Watford on Saturday.



"Sometimes it's nice to have the international break so you can reflect on your start and have a weekend off," said Cork. "For us it probably came at the wrong time because when you're in form you don't want the break.
"But the international boys have had some crucial games for their countries, and it is a great period for them.
"Jonjo was solid for England and really impressed, while Gylfi will be bouncing after helping Iceland qualify.
"Ash and Tayls did really well and Wales are almost there too, so they will be really positive.
"I think the international lads will come back feeling good and hopefully we can use that positivity in preparation for the game with Watford."



Cork heads to a familiar stomping ground this weekend, with the midfielder having spent five months on loan with the Hornets during the 2008-09 campaign where he played under former Swans boss Brendan Rodgers.
Included in his 19 league appearances for the Hornets was a 2-0 win over the Swans at Vicarage Road.
Watford, who finished second in the Championship last season, are currently searching for their first win of the campaign.
Quique Flores' side, however, have only suffered one defeat, with that coming at leaders Manchester City last time out.
But Cork is expecting nothing other than a formidable test against his former loan club.
"I spent five months there and I enjoyed my time playing under Brendan," added Cork. "I played the first half of the season with Southampton and then spent the rest of it with Watford.
"It's a good club and not many tipped them to go up last season but it's great to see them back in the Premier League.
"It's tough when you get promoted. The first season can be a steep learning curve, but we've seen more and more teams like Swansea and Southampton really settle in the division thanks to the right investment and players, and Watford can do that."

Supporters travelling to Watford should be aware that building work is taking place at the away end of Vicarage Road.
Swans fans are asked to arrive 15 minutes earlier than usual due to the temporary turnstiles in operation, while a team of meeters and greeters will assist where necessary.


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