Preview: Crystal Palace v Swansea
22nd September
The Swans will be looking to end the week on a positive note when they travel to Crystal Palace on Sunday (1.30pm).
Michael Laudrup's men produced a good performance against league leaders Liverpool last Monday in an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Liberty.
That started a run of three games in seven days, as the Swans then travelled to Valencia in the Europa League.
But Laudrup's side put on a European masterclass to claim a 3-0 win in the Mestalla amidst praise from fans and pundits alike.
However, it is now back to domestic action at Selhurst Park against newly-promoted Crystal Palace.
The Eagles have lost three of their opening four games - but picked up a crucial 3-1 win against Sunderland in their last outing on home soil.
The last time the two sides met at Selhurst Park was back in the Championship, as the Swans eased to a 3-0 win in October 2010.
Team news
Palace are without the suspended Kagisho Dikgacoi, while fit-again Jerome Thomas and Jonathan Parr could return.
Meanwhile, Laudrup will make a decision on Ashley Williams, who missed the win over Valencia with an ankle problem, while Pablo Hernandez is out.
What they said
Swans boss Michael Laudrup: "Valencia, unfortunately, is gone for me. I say unfortunately because you want to enjoy it a little more, but I can't because we are focused on Crystal Palace.
"We are back in Premier League action, and we face a new side to the division who know they need to get a lot of their points at home.
"I expect them to be a physical side, and they will try to take advantage of any possible tiredness from us. They have done well so far."
Palace boss Ian Holloway: "Swansea changed how I see the whole of football. They made me realise how beautiful the game is and how passing and moving can make you a better defensive unit."
"I'm enjoying the challenge of tactics and the challenge of working people and coaching people, getting them to believe in what we are doing and buy into our ethic."
Crystal Palace stats
- Victory would see Palace win back-to-back Premier League home games for the first time since January 2005 when they defeated Aston Villa (2-0) and Spurs (3-0)
- They have failed to score in nine of their last 16 league games, scoring 13 goals in total
- But the Eagles have lost just two of their last 26 games at Selhurst Park in all competitions
Swansea stats
- Victory for Laudrup's men would mean the Swans win consecutive Premier League away games for the first time since November 2012
- The Swans have lost their last five games against London opposition
- And they have conceded seven goals this season, a tally exceeded only by Sunderland prior to the weekend's games
** Don't forget, if you can't make it to Selhurst Park you can follow live updates on Twitter via @SwansOfficial or the official website.
