Only our best will do at Chelsea, warns Monk

11th September

Swans boss Garry Monk has warned his players that nothing but their best will do against a Chelsea side he believes will be fighting for the league title in May.
The Swans head to Stamford Bridge on Saturday for a top-of-the-table clash with the Blues as the Barclays Premier League's two perfect records go up against each other.
Monk has guided his team to three straight league wins over Manchester United, Burnley and West Brom, but the Swans boss insists his team must turn in a hugely impressive display if they are to return home from London with a positive result.



"They are one of the powerhouses of the league," Monk said of Chelsea. "They have quality players over the pitch. When you analyse them, there are a lot more strengths than weaknesses.
"They can hurt you in many areas via different players. In my opinion they are among the contenders to win the league.
"But anyone is beatable. We are under no illusions we have to be at our best to warrant any points.
Having led his team to a perfect start in the top flight, Monk has been nominated alongside Mourinho, Mark Hughes and Paul Lambert for the league's monthly managerial award.
And he believes it underlines the club's early efforts, though plenty of hard work lies ahead.
"The only thing I take from it is that the staff, myself and the players are doing something right," said Monk.
"It's great that we have started so well, but it's only a start.
"I want to do more and the team understand that. We still need to improve in various areas.
"Expectations have to be managed, which we will do within this club."
Monk also confirmed that Leon Britton could return to action within four to five weeks.
The midfielder is yet to feature this season due to a knee problem, but a successful scan has indicated that Britton - who turns 32 next week - could be back in around a month's time.