Monk hails "unbelievable" season

Garry Monk admits it was disappointing to end the Premier League campaign with defeat - but praised his players for what he describes as an "unbelievable" season.

The Swans went down to a 1-0 defeat against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park as Marouane Chamakh's second-half strike separated the two sides.

It brought the curtain down on what has been a record-breaking campaign in SA1 as Monk's men finished the season in eighth place - their highest standing since winning promotion - as well as claiming a best-ever points tally of 56 in the Premier League.

"Today was not a reflection of the season," said Monk. "But it was of course disappointing to lose the game.

"i thought it was a poor match really, there weren't many chances and I said to the players at half-time that it would probably be decided by a mistake and that's what happened.

"We wanted to add to the points tally and this squad always wants more. We had a lot of key players missing today but that's not an excuse.

"In terms of the bigger picture we've been unbelievable this season and it has been incredible from start to finish.

"We had a big transition last summer with players and we hope to recruit well this summer and have a similar if not better season next year.

"The preparation now starts for pre-season because the Premier League season  starts earlier so its a quick turnaround."

Meanwhile, Monk also confirmed that defender Neil Taylor is close to agreeing a new contract with the club.