Russell Martin | We want to bring the same energy and intensity

Head coach Russell Martin has challenged his Swansea City side to bring the energy and intensity when they host Championship leaders Burnley this afternoon (3pm).

The Swans kick off 2023 with arguably the toughest assignment in the second tier given Burnley have lost just two league games all season, with one of those coming all the way back in August.

But Martin’s side can take plenty of confidence from how they rounded off 2022, when they dismantled another side fancied for promotion in Watford.

That 4-0 win moved the Swans back to within a point of the play-off places ahead of the first round of fixtures in 2023.

And Martin – who praised the effort and work-rate of his side against the Hornets – wants more of the same in their attitude and application.

“We know we need to find some consistency, and hopefully the win over Watford can give us a platform to do that,” he said.

“The players and the fans really fed off each other on Friday, I really enjoyed that, and I am sure we will have the same again on Monday.

“They are the league leaders, they have been for much of the season, and they gave us our toughest afternoon of the season so far when we played at their place.

“I think it will be a great game, I am really excited about it. The way we played on Friday definitely helps us prepare for that.

“We have been quite flexible with our shape in the last few games, so we will have a look at Burnley but I want us to bring the same energy.

“Vincent has done a great job there, I love the way they play. I think it will make for a fascinating game as we are two teams who want to dominate the ball.

“But we need that same, energy and commitment we showed against Watford.”