Jefferson Montero is fighting fit for Swansea City's Premier League run-in
15th March
Flying winger Jefferson Montero has declared himself fighting fit for Swansea City's crucial end-of-season Premier League push.
It's been a frustrating campaign for Montero after first a broken hand and then a hamstring injury ruled him out for long periods.
But the Ecuadorian international made his comeback in the Under-23s' PL2 title-winning performance against Wolves in midweek. And the 27-year-old was delighted to get an hour of action under his belt.
"I was very happy to be back on the pitch," declared Montero. "It's been a very difficult season for me.
"I was out for four weeks with a broken hand and then another 10 weeks with the hamstring injury. It's been very frustrating.
"But I felt good on Monday night. I have worked hard on the training ground and felt strong going into the game. There is obviously a big difference between training and playing, but the hour has given me a lot of confidence to push for a first-team place again.
"The team has done really well since the new head coach (Paul Clement) has come in. Training has been tough and intense, but he's given everyone confidence and the rewards have come on the pitch. Now with 27 points we have a chance.''
Having been a spectator on the sidelines for a large part of the current campaign Montero, who will also join up with Ecuador next week for two important World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Colombia, is determined to make up for lost time and help push the Swans over the line sooner rather than later.
"Mentally I am strong," he added. "I'm determined to fight my way back into the first-team frame and play my part in helping the club secure its Premier League status."
