Ahead of West Ham’s game at the Liberty Stadium against Swansea, we spoke to Read Swansea editor Declan Terry to found out a bit more about tomorrow’s opposition.
What do you make of West Ham’s start to the season?
I think it’s been a terrific start for the Hammers, although recent form has put a little dampener on things. On the whole though, I’ve been really impressed by West Ham. Their summer signings have been excellent; Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini were absolute coups! Add them to the likes of Adrian, Angelo Ogbonna, Mark Noble and you’ve got yourself a strong and well balanced squad. A top half finish should definitely be on the cards.
How has Swansea’s season started?
It’s turned pretty awful. The first month was brilliant; we played well, scored goals and this season looked as if it was going to be a repeat of last campaign, where we finished eighth. However, it just went terribly wrong… I don’t even know how! Garry Monk led us to relegation form, with one win in twelve games and low and behold, he was sacked.
Who is Swansea’s current key player?
Our key player is definitely Andre Ayew. Signing as a free-agent in July, the Ghanaian has been incredible. As a player, he’s got the lot, and when the majority of the Swansea players have been lifeless and uninterested – which has been the case since August – Ayew is the only man to step up.
Predicted XI?
Fabianski, Naughton, Fernandez, Williams, Taylor, Ki, Cork, Shelvey, Sigurdsson, Routledge, Ayew.
Were you shocked when Garry Monk was let go and who would like to replace him?
I was not shocked at all. Believe it or not, many Swansea fans were calling for his head after our recent pumping by Leicester. That match against Leicester was the worst I’ve ever seen us play – no exaggeration. It could’ve easily been 10-0 (again, no exaggeration) to Leicester, however they kept it down to 3-0. After that game, it was evident that change was needed. And now we’ve got that, we can only look up. As for a replacement, Marcelo Bielsa is looking very close to becoming our next manager. If all goes to plan, I can’t wait to see the Argentine in South Wales. What a character!
What could West ham expect to see from Swansea in the form of tactics?
I think we’ll try and keep the ball away from West Ham at all costs. And if Andy Carroll starts, the aim will be to keep the ball away from the big man. He always seems to turn up against us, so we’ll be trying our uttermost best to keep him quiet.
Finally, can we have a prediction for Sunday’s match?
With the Swansea squad somewhat rejuvenated, I think we can conjure up a performance and get a point at minimum. I’ll go for a 1-1 draw.
