Planet Swans ArchivesIt has been a long two weeks since the 2-2 draw with Newcastle at the Liberty ended the last mini round of Premier League matches and due to yesterday’s results the Swans have the chance of lifting themselves back into the top four with a win in front of the Sky TV cameras this afternoon.
But to do so many have said they need to learn to cope with the aerial threat of Crouch who has scored three times in three games against them at the Britannia since we were promoted to the Premier League.
Those goals tend to come from set pieces and Rangel is one of the first to admit that the Swans have not always been the best at defending a set piece although it is something that they are getting better at as time goes on.
“It is obvious the height is a difficulty because we have short players. We’ve conceded so many goals from set-pieces to the big boys, like Andy Carroll and Crouch. But we are improving.
“It has caused us problems but you always learn from mistakes and try to get better. The gaffer was a defender for a long time – over 20 years as a professional. So, he has been showing us how to defend at set-pieces. It’s important we use his experience.”
The Swans conceded what was a couple of soft goals against Newcastle last time out but have been reasonably strong at the back for much of this season.
They will also be looking to bounce back from four league games without a win after a start to the season where we won our opening three encounters.
Rangel is back from suspension this afternoon after his red card against Sunderland three weeks ago and he will be looking to Crouch as one of the main threats for the Swans
“Crouch seems clumsy, but he’s not. You cannot think that about him.
“If they play a long ball to him then he will pull it down with his chest or his foot and make his team play. It’s not just about heading the ball. You could see that when they got three points against Newcastle, he made the most of simple crosses into him, bringing others into play.”
The Swans only real selection decision is around who will replace the suspended Jonjo Shelvey in midfield with Tom Carroll appearing to the favourite.
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