Jono loving the busy schedule

17th January

It's been another hectic month for the Swans, but there are no signs of easing up at the Liberty.
After coming through a tough December which included seven games, the New Year has started in even busier fashion with Michael Laudrup's side taking in eight matches in January.
With five of those out of the way - and a potential ninth fixture out of the equation following Wednesday's FA Cup third-round replay defeat at Arsenal - the Swans now face three games in two different competitions before the month is out.
Attention now turns to the Barclays Premier League fixture with Stoke City at the Liberty on Saturday, before a historic Capital One Cup semi-final second leg with Chelsea next Wednesday in SA1.
And it's a busy run of fixtures which the players are thriving on, as Jonathan de Guzman explains.
"It's been a really busy time for the club because we had so many fixtures around Christmas and New Year, but I love it like this," said the midfielder.
"I spent five years in Holland but there was only one occasion where we played over Christmas, and we had a Christmas break in Spain.
"But over here playing over the Christmas period and New Year is a popular part of the football calendar for fans, and it's the same with the players.
"Of course, we do miss out on some important family time, but that is part of football. But it does mean we are doing what we love to do, and that's playing football.
"We have played a lot of games in that period, and it isn't easing up for us, but that is a sign that we are being very competitive and successful as a football club.
"It also allows us to maintain a rhythm in our play and an opportunity to build momentum."
The Swans will be looking to build momentum against Stoke on Saturday after a 1-0 defeat at the Emirates on Wednesday ended the club's seven-match unbeaten run.
But de Guzman, who has scored four goals in his 27 appearances so far, insists the squad remain upbeat despite the cup exit at the hands of Arsenal.
"We have a good mental state of mind right now, despite what happened on Wednesday night," said the Dutchman, currently on loan from Villarreal.
"There is a strong unity in this group, which is very important, and we are all determined to go on another unbeaten run like we have just managed.
"So it's an important game on Saturday - Stoke are a tough, physical side.
"I didn't play against them last time, but I know it will be a big test for us.
"And I'm sure all the fans will be glad to see us playing at the Liberty again after three consecutive away games.
"We all love playing in front of the Jack Army, and I'm sure they will make a lot of noise of Saturday afternoon to help us get back to winning ways."