Monk targets record points tally
13th March
Garry Monk is hoping his side can go another step closer to beating their best-ever Barclays Premier League total when they host Liverpool on Monday night (8pm).
The Swans welcome Brendan Rodgers' in-form Liverpool to the Liberty Stadium aiming for a return to winning ways following their narrow 3-2 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur last time out.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are targeting a place in the top four and have been in scintillating form since the turn of the year.
Rodgers' men are the only side in the Premier League to remain unbeaten in 2015, but are yet to taste victory over the Swans at the Liberty.
And with Monk's men now on 40 points from 28 games in the top flight this season, the Swans boss is hoping his side can secure another three points as they look to surpass their record tally of 47 points.
"We've got a confident group and a great team spirit, which has carried us through this season," said Monk. "We have to be fully focussed for Monday night because we want to finish the season strong.
"The league game we had up there we deserved to lose - Liverpool were very good - but the cup game was very harsh on us.
"They are a very good side with great quality. They are the in-form team in the league and have dangerous players all over the pitch.
"But we've been working well in training this week, and we'll try to nullify their strengths and show our own qualities.
"They're pushing for the top four, but we have our own agenda. Our next target is to beat our best-ever total of 47 points, and we've got a great chance of doing that.
"We are going to push and fight for the three points to get us another step closer. It's important we get on the front foot and get the crowd behind us.
"I think it will be a good game, and hopefully we can put on a good show. We are looking forward to it."
There will be plenty of familiar faces in both camps as Monday night's clash sees Rodgers, members of his backroom staff and Joe Allen return to SA1, while Jonjo Shelvey could figure for the Swans against his former club.
"There are a lot of links between the clubs," added Monk. "It'll be good to see Brendan and his backroom staff, as well as Joe Allen. But, on the night, it will be all about fighting for the three points."
