Rob Davies
Swansea City take on QPR this afternoon in a very early season must win game after collecting just six points from seven games.
Whilst it isn’t a must win in terms of final positions it’s true to say that if another loss comes then the pressure may just reach breaking point from the fans and maybe, just maybe the ownership too.
Wednesday’s draw against Stoke was an improvement but it’s largely crumbs of comfort rather than the start of the revolution although it will be interesting to see which Swansea City team turns up today.
QPR have been on a reasonable run under new coach Michael Beale since arriving from Aston Villa where he was Steven Gerrard’s assistant manager and hopes are high for the team from West London..
The big news that is suggested at the moment in terms of team selection is the return of Steven Benda in goals in place of Andy Fisher. That is not confirmed but if social media is to be believed then it seems to be the case.
Team News
The Swans have no fresh injury concerns with the long term absentees Joel Latibeaudiere and Liam Walsh still out.
Michael Obafemi may start after he was dropped against Stoke although even the manager himself recognises that playing Joel Piroe on right hampers his natural ability in front of goal.
In midfield Oli Cooper impressed so much against Stoke that he should start again – whether that will be the case remains to be seen with Jamie Paterson and Olivier Ntcham vying for positions.
Fin Stevens should start at right back in place of Matty Sorinola who could theoretically be pushed further forward and the question is whether Martin will go with a four or five at the back.
For the R’s, Jake Clarke-Salter is out with an injury, although Chris Willock is edging closer to fitness and could start on the bench if given the green light to play.
Wales international Tyler Roberts on loan from Leeds could be preferred over Lyndon Dykes for this one as the latter has struck just once this season.
Predicted line-ups:
Swansea (4-2-3-1):
Fisher
Stevens – Cabango – Darling – Manning
Allen – Grimes
Piroe – Cooper – Ntcham
Obafemi
QPR (4-2-3-1)
Dieng
Laird – Dickie – Dunne – Paal
Field – Johansen
Chair – Dozzell – Willock
Roberts
The Managers’ comments
Russell Martin: “It’s definitely tight. There’re such fine margins. You must learn very quickly, although as a group of staff and players they’ve come through a tough moment really well,” said Martin.
“We were frustrated conceding late to only get a point (at Stoke), but I feel it was a positive step for us looking ahead to this game.
“The most pleasing thing was how dangerous we looked. How much we threatened, the chances we created and the moments we had when we got into their box.
Michael Beale: A week can make all the difference in the Championship..
“The games come thick and fast, and we’re delighted with the two results we’ve picked up this week.
“It’s important now that we quickly focus on Saturday’s game at Swansea.
Planet Swans prediction
Swansea City 1-2 QPR
Your melodramatic article is typical these days of a complete lack of patience with a long term project. Stupid, shallow and completely unwarranted hysterical tosh