Monk targets return to winning ways
23rd April
Garry Monk is targeting an instant return to winning ways when the Swans travel to face Newcastle United on Saturday (3pm).
Monk's men make the lengthy trip to St. James' Park aiming to bounce back from last weekend's 2-0 defeat at Leicester City and surpass their record Premier League points total of 47.
The Swans were not at their fluent best at the King Power Stadium, and Monk insists his side are determined to put on an improved display against the Magpies.
"We were disappointed last week with our performance," said Monk. "We didn't reach the standards we've set this season, so we are looking to put on a performance this weekend to get back on track.
"Every time we've had a setback this season, we've come back strong. Hopefully we can show that again on Saturday.
"We need to start well and get some momentum in the game, which will hopefully affect them."
Newcastle, meanwhile, are enduring a difficult spell having only won twice in 14 games since the turn of the year.
Last weekend, the Magpies suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur, but Monk insists his side are anticipating a tough test when they head to the North-East of England.
"We've done well there in recent years, and it's a great place to play your football. The pitch is great and the crowd are great, but it is a tough place to go," added the Swans boss.
"They have fantastic supporters who are very loyal to the team. I think their frustrations have been about off-the-field issues because they always back their side on the pitch.
"Newcastle will want to bounce back from recent results, and John (Carver) is an experienced coach, who I'm sure is giving everything and using all his experience to push those players.
"I was in his position last season, in terms of taking over in what was a difficult moment for the club.
"But they are a really talented side with good attacking players, so we will be aware of that.
"They have strength in wide areas and are a very mobile team, but we will prepare to try and exploit their weaknesses."
