Monk predicting tough Saints test

Garry Monk insists his players are under no illusions about the tough task that Southampton will pose ahead of Saturday's game at the Liberty Stadium (3pm).

Third meets fourth in SA1 this weekend as both clubs look to continue their fine start to the Premier League season.

The Swans suffered their first defeat of the campaign last weekend at the hands of Chelsea, while Southampton eased to an impressive 4-0 victory over Newcastle.

Both clubs have experienced change this summer but none more so than Saturday's visitors, who sold six first-team players along with the departure of boss Mauricio Pochettino.

But under the guidance of new manager Ronald Koeman and a host of key signings, the south coast club have picked up from where they left off last season.

"I think they have (recovered)," said Monk. "They have used the money to buy quality and at the moment they are playing well and scoring goals.

"They play fantastic football and have threats all over the pitch. The new players that have come in have scored goals and

their mentality is the same as last season. 

"It will be a very difficult game, and we're under no illusions as to how tough it will be on Saturday."

Monk was also full of praise for his players despite last weekend's defeat at Chelsea - with the Swans turning in a particularly impressive first-half display.

"To lose the game was initially disappointing," he said. "But the way we played, especially in the first half, meant that there were plenty of positives for us to take away.

"What we saw was very good and its all about hitting those standards and doing that for a longer period of time in games."

Meanwhile, the only absentee for Saturday's game is defender Jordi Amat, who was replaced at half-time during the defeat at Stamford Bridge with a knee problem.

"I was disappointed for Jordi," said Monk. "He took his opportunity well this season and I stuck with him. Unfortunately he tweaked his ligaments but it could be a lot worse.

"I think his football has come on a lot this season but these things happen."