Ryan Manning | FA Cup a chance to build momentum and stake a claim

Ryan Manning hopes Swansea City can carry their momentum into their FA Cup campaign, and hopes to be able to stake a claim for more regular first-team action.

The Republic of Ireland international was a late call-up for last weekend’s Championship win over Watford, and played his part in an impressive comeback win.

The 24-year-old has had to be patient when it comes to first-team opportunities following his move from Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the domestic window in October.

But he is keen to build on his showing against the Hornets, and hopefully get the Swans’ FA Cup campaign up and running with a victory at Stevenage this weekend.

“It’s always a good opportunity for people to stake a claim and maybe get some vital minutes,” he said.

“It’s normally a very tough time of year anyway as the festive period is always busy and then you come into the cup.

“This year, you’ve had the schedule with games every midweek and weekend which adds to it.

“But the FA Cup is always one of the biggest events in the football calendar, and if you can put a good run together it can be massive for the club and the supporters.

“It also helps to keep the momentum going, and we want to do that after some strong performances.

“So, we will go out and look to put in a good performance and get a good result.”