Swans v Millwall: Talking points

8th February
First team

Swansea City will look to get back to winning ways when they host Millwall at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Here, we look at some of the main talking points ahead of the Championship clash.

A chance of Millwall redemption for Courtney

For Courtney Baker-Richardson the occasion of his league debut for Swansea City is unlikely to be a day he forgets in a hurry.

His sending off after less than five minutes at The New Den earlier this season left the striker fearing for his career, but he has bounced back from the disappointment in fine fashion and has a goal from two of his three starts in 2019.

With Oli McBurnie struggling with illness, Baker-Richardson could find himself starting against Millwall once again and, if given the chance, the 23-year-old will be eager to ensure Saturday’s encounter proves to be a more positive experience on a personal level.

Can the Swans bounce back again?

That reverse fixture back in September saw Graham Potter’s men produce a performance bristling with character and spirit.

Having lost Baker-Richardson early on, the Swans also fell behind before turning the game on its head thanks to goals from Kyle Naughton and McBurnie.

The post-match celebrations between players, staff and fans told their own story and provided one of the moments of the season to date.

Turnarounds of that nature have seen Swansea recover 14 points from losing positions this season, most recently grabbing a draw against Birmingham in stoppage time.

That ability to bounce back from setbacks has underpinned a season of ups and downs and, having seen a seven-match unbeaten run ended at Bristol City last weekend, Potter and his players will know that starting another strong string of results will be key as the season enters its final third.

James back in action

Daniel James admitted he had faced a tough and challenging few days in the wake of the end of the January transfer window.

The winger had travelled to Elland Road to discuss a loan move with a view to a permanent transfer on enhanced terms should Leeds secure promotion to the Premier League.

However, the clubs could not agree suitable terms and the 21-year-old returned to Swansea.

He sat out the defeat at Bristol City after discussions with manager Potter, but he is contention for selection this weekend.

The Swans boss has been impressed by James’ attitude and application upon his return to training and the Wales international will be eager to get back on the field and continue the exciting form he has shown during his breakthrough campaign at first-team level.