Potter eager to build on momentum
Swansea City boss Graham Potter wants his side to make sure they build on their recent momentum in Saturday's FA Cup meeting with Gillingham (3pm).
The Swans look to book their place in the last 16 of the famous knock-out competition when the League One Gill visit the Liberty Stadium.
Potter's men have enjoyed an encouraging start to 2019, and are unbeaten in their five games this calendar year.
That represents the longest such sequence of Potter's tenure to date, and victory over Sheffield United last time out moved Swansea up to ninth place in the Championship table.
Whilst a combination of injury and illness has not helped the Swans' preparations, Potter wants his squad to back-up their recent form ahead of Tuesday's league clash with Birmingham in SA1.
"We need to carry on. I think the momentum we have been having recently has been positive for us," he said.
"Of course there are a few issues we need to be mindful of in terms of not exposing players to situations they cannot deal with, like coming back from illness in a three-game week.
"There are all those considerations, but the mentality we want to have is to focus on the next game, go and try and win the game and prepare for the next one after that.
"We have used the group all season, everyone has had opportunities, everyone feels part of what we are trying to do and it's now a case of everyone being ready when we want them to try and help us."
The Gills are managed by former Swan Steve Lovell, who was born in Swansea and played for the club during a loan spell from Millwall in 1987.
Potter appreciates how much the 58-year-old will be looking forward to facing his old club, but hopes he doesn't have too many reasons to enjoy his return to his hometown.
"It is obviously great for him to come home if you like," said Potter.
"I can't really wish for him to have a good day, to be honest with you! But maybe after the game I can wish him a nice day.
"They are a good side and have the pressure and the shackles off."
