Mike van der Hoorn: Swansea City are ready to thrive

Mike van der Hoorn reckons Swansea City's players are ready to put smiles on their fans' faces - as well as their own - ahead of this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace.

The Swans have not won a Premier League game since the opening day of the season, and van der Hoorn admits the difficult run has been hard to take.

But the former Ajax centre-back believes Bob Bradley's men are poised to turn their season around after last Saturday's encouraging draw at Everton.

The Swans host 16th-placed Palace tomorrow, while they face five games against sides who are currently in mid-table or below during December.

"We haven't had the results we have wanted," van der Hoorn tells this weekend's Jack Magazine.

"For me it has been good to get some games, but I am a bit down when we lose. I really want to win every match.

"But I think we can get better. We have had some very tough fixtures, especially at home, but now we have some games against teams who are nearer to us."

Following his summer move from Ajax, van der Hoorn is still getting used to what he describes as a considerable rise in standards.

But the 24-year-old believes he is getting better all the time.

"I want to be a powerful centre-back, but I also want to be able to play long passes and use the ball well. I want to combine all the qualities you need," he adds.

The defender talks about his education at Ajax, getting used to life under Bob Bradley and his plan to get back into the Dutch national squad.

Also in Jack Magazine, we hear from rising star Oli McBurnie, who reveals why his footballing career might have come to an end had the Swans not spotted his potential.

New assistant manager Paul Williams reveals how he has taught players elsewhere about the Swansea way. 

We also speak to Alan Tate, former Swans striker Lee Thorpe and get all the news from the Liberty, plus the views of Bradley, Leon Britton and Huw Jenkins.

And there is plenty more in this week's Jack Magazine, including news from the development squad, the academy and the ladies' team, as well as all you need to know about Alan Pardew's Crystal Palace.

Issue seven of the Premier League campaign is available for just £3 from around the Liberty, the club shop and online.