Swansea City defender Angel Rangel expects another close encounter against Stoke City

17th October

Angel Rangel expects the Swans to experience another close encounter with Stoke City on Monday night at the Liberty (8pm).
Garry Monk's side take on the Potters in Monday night's live televised game as Barclays Premier League action returns following the international break.
The Swans are unbeaten on home soil this season - and against Stoke in the Premier League, having won three and drawn one of their four encounters at the Liberty.
Likewise, Stoke have also won three and drawn the other of their matches against the Swans at the Britannia Stadium.
And Rangel believes the next fixture between the sides will again prove to be a closely-fought encounter.



"It's been very equal between ourselves and Stoke in the Premier League," said the Spaniard. "They tend to win at their place and we have won our games at the Liberty, but they are very, very tough matches with not much between the sides.
"They have changed a lot in the way they play. They are signed some good players and the team is starting to adapt to playing the way the manager wants.
"It's a very big game for us on Monday.
"It has been quite up and down so far for us in terms of the season. We've had the highs of results against Chelsea and Manchester United which give you a boost in terms of confidence, then there are the defeats to Watford and Southampton.
"It's still early in the season, but if we look at positives then our home form is certainly one and we need to make the most of that advantage on Monday night."



The 32-year-old, who is in his eighth season with the Swans, made his first league start of the campaign against Tottenham Hotspur last time out as both teams played out a 2-2 draw.
Rangel has found game-time hard to come by following Kyle Naughton's arrival last January, but the Swans stalwart is enjoying the challenge of vying for a first-team spot.
"I have a strong mentality, though it was difficult at first as I have been used to playing week-in week-out for the last eight years," said Rangel.
"I understand the club needs to sign younger players, but I know I'm still part of the squad.
"I've spoken to Garry a couple of times, and we both understand the situation. He knows I'm there for when he needs me and I know he still counts on me.
"I've not lost any motivation. In fact, I'm probably more determined in training now as I'm trying to push the younger players on.
"You won't find me thinking 'ah, I'm not playing so I won't work hard.' When you don't play you have to work even harder.
"The way you train is the way you play. No doubt whoever you speak to, they will tell you that I'm always moaning about every decision in training - I'm very competitive.
"For Monday, if I am selected in the starting XI then I will do my best. If I am on the bench or whatever, then I will support the boys as much as I can because we are all in this together."

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