Swans v Watford: The big talking points
Swansea City go in search of a first home win of the season when they take on Watford this weekend.
We take a look at all the key talking points as Paul Clement’s men look to get the better of the Hornets.
Home sweet home?
The Swans finished last season in excellent form on their own patch, losing just one of their final eight games in Landore as they pulled clear of relegation danger.
Yet the new campaign has started with some fine results on the road – Clement’s team have not lost in five away fixtures – and two defeats in two home games.
The Manchester United reverse was one thing, but the loss to Newcastle last time out at the Liberty was unacceptable in the manager’s eyes.
He will expect a response this weekend.
Shining Silva
Marco Silva could not quite save Hull City from relegation last season, but he did enough in his short time on Humberside to establish himself on these shores.
Hence he was linked with a number of Premier League jobs before eventually taking over at Watford.
Silva has started well at Vicarage Road, with two away league wins on the board already.
Clement will be desperate to ensure the Watford boss is not celebrating travelling triumph No. 3 this weekend, particularly after two defeats against Silva’s Hull side in the second half of last season.
Ton up for Fede
Federico Fernandez was arguably the Swans’ best player as they claimed that creditable goalless draw at Tottenham last weekend.
The Argentine has enjoyed a fine start to the season, leading by example having been given the captain’s armband in the absence of Leon Britton.
And assuming he is involved, Fernandez will reach a landmark this weekend as he plays the 100th game for the Swans.
Bony’s chance?
Wilfried Bony made the first start of his second spell as a Swan at Reading in midweek, and impressed Clement with his energy and industry.
The Swans boss acknowledged that Bony was some way behind his team-mates in fitness terms when he arrived on deadline day having seen no action in pre-season.
However, the striker made an impact as a substitute at Spurs and then looked hungry at the Madejski Stadium, leaving Clement to suggest that he could be ready for a start in the Premier League.
Shapeshifters
The Swans started with two wingers, one striker and three in midfield at Reading in midweek – the set-up they have used most often in recent years.
At Tottenham last weekend, they played 3-5-2, while against Newcastle the previous Sunday, Clement went for a 4-4-2 diamond.
So what system will the Swans boss go for against Watford?
We will have to wait and see.
