A welcome break for Angel

Angel Rangel insists the international break has come at just the right time for the Swans squad.

Michael Laudrup's side registered their first points of the Premier League season with a win over West Brom last weekend - a result that lifted them off the foot of the table.

Prior to that the Swans had suffered back-to-back league defeats against Manchester United and Spurs, despite progressing to the group stages of the Europa League.

The squad now have a two-week break before returning to domestic action against Liverpool at the Liberty on September 16.

And Rangel - who has featured in every game so far this season - believes the international fixtures are perfect timing.

"I think it has come at the right time, and it is a welcome break," said Angel. "We had a difficult August with so many games to play, especially the ones that we knew we needed to win to advance in the Europa League.

"We managed to get through that but we also had a difficult start in the Premier League. But after the win over West Brom it's nice to have that break so we're ready for the challenges ahead.

"That game (West Brom) was a cup final for us, because it's not nice when you see yourself at the bottom of the table on zero points.

"The points were also not only vital to us, but for the fans as well.

"Even though it is early in the season, the win gives us confidence going into the next game against Liverpool."

The Swans have already played seven times this season, with the month of September set to be another gruelling period for Michael Laudrup's squad.

After a home game with Liverpool, the Swans face trips to Valencia, Crystal Palace and Birmingham before hosting Arsenal at the Liberty.

"We knew we had to get past Malmo and then we went to Romania and got through that as well," said Angel. "That is four games alone, together with the travelling, and we also played two league games against two very good teams.

"We knew it was going to be tough but I think the squad has done well, and after the win against West Brom everything is a little bit better.

"But we have five games in September, so it will be a difficult month - but exciting for everyone involved."

With the transfer window now closed until the start of January, Michael Laudrup brought in Spanish striker Alvaro Vazquez to boost his attacking options.

The 22-year-old arrived from Getafe on a season-long loan and takes the Swans' Spanish contingent up to eight - something that Rangel has got used to over the years.

"Whenever you sign new players it always takes a while to click," he said. "Overall, everyone is connecting well and we have Alvaro in the squad now who will give us some extra quality up front.

"I have seen him play for both Getafe and the Spanish Under-21s; he is a quality player who is going to score goals.

"He is very hungry to be here and prove himself in the Premier League and I think he is coming to the right club to do just that."