Trundle: Derby is 'perfect' for Monk

Lee Trundle believes Saturday's Welsh derby with Cardiff City is the perfect game for Garry Monk to start his new head coach role.
Monk took over the reigns on Tuesday following Michael Laudrup's departure, and the Swans stalwart has been preparing the squad for Saturday evening's clash at the Liberty Stadium (5.30pm).
But while many in the media have suggested the game will be a baptism of fire for Monk, Trundle believes his former team-mate and captain's leadership qualities will help him adjust to life in the hotseat.
"I was fortunate enough to play with Garry for a number of years and as soon as he arrived at the football club back in 2003, you could tell that he was a leader," said Trundle.
"The lads respected him straight away and listened to what he had to say, but he also had a fun side to him as well and I think he'll do really well as a manager.
"He was always someone who was studious about the game, very conscientious and wanted to learn. That is important, especially in the modern era, and I've got no doubts that he will go on and be great success at the Liberty Stadium."



Monk kicks off his new role with a Welsh derby as the Swans look to avenge November's 1-0 defeat at The Cardiff City Stadium.
And club ambassador Trunds is confident Monk will have his team well-prepared as they aim to pick up three vital points.
"All the players will respect him, not just from playing with him, but from the way he conducts himself as well," added the former Swans striker.
"When you've got someone around you who is the ultimate professional, that rubs off on people around you. Garry is also someone who has a genuine love for the club - that is real and something to be admired.
"People have understandably drawn comparisons to when Roberto Martinez took over after his time as a player here. Roberto was a close friend when I played with him and when he came into the job it was a little strange at first.
"But for me, this game against Cardiff represents the perfect game for him to start.
"Garry knows what this game means to the fans because he has been a massive part of this club coming up through the divisions and into the Premier League.
"There is a lot of pride at stake for both clubs and Garry will drill that into the players."