Sunderland make the 700+ mile round trip to Wales today, to take on Swansea City. We spoke to the editor of the 'Swansea Oh Swansea' fanzine to discuss the Swans' start to the season...
You're 6th in the league this season, would you take that if the season ended right now?
Yes I would absolutely take it. We were in the bottom three a few weeks ago, since then we picked up 13 points from the last 18 available. We’ve turned a corner, I’m not certain we’ll stay in the top six but I’m more optimistic than I was at the end of August.
Who's been Swansea's best player this season?
Ryan Manning, he played in a back three a lot last term but he’s now playing at left wing back and it suits him far better. He’s got great delivery and has been a real threat for us.
What are your thoughts on gaffer Russell Martin?
There were doubts but he’s made a few tweaks recently that have worked wonders. Changing the goalkeeper has been a great decision and we’re not taking as many risks defensively with playing out from as we were. Joel Piroe has moved back up front from attacking midfield and we’re creating far more and inevitably scoring more as a result.
Which Sunderland player worries you the most, given that both Ross Stewart and Ellis Simms are injured?
I've not watched a lot of Sunderland but it’s got to be Patrick Roberts. It was a coup for you to land him last season, if he finally realises his potential then he’ll do some damage.
What are Swansea's strengths and weaknesses?
Strengths are goal threat at the moment. We’ve scored eight in our last three and we’re very good at passing the opposition to death. But sometimes it can be passing for the sake of it so that can also be a weakness. We can get caught out on the break as well, especially if wing backs are out of position.
What's your score prediction?
I’m going to say a 2-1 Swansea win, Piroe to score both as he’s due a day where his finishing is back on fire.
Where do you reckon both sides will finish this year?
I can see top half for both, I’m not sure Swansea have enough to go the distance, but I think this is a poor league so you never know. I see similar for Sunderland, after a lot of misery I think you’re back on an upward trajectory again and I can see you having a successful campaign.
And finally, where's the best place for an away fan to get a pint in Swansea?
There’s a few options. If you head into town there’s several places like the Griffin, Jack Murphy's, and Bank Statement. The former two will both have Sky and BT. You can get a taxi from the top of the street to the ground for under a tenner. Boss Brewery by the ground has craft beer and is often popular with away fans. There’s also a Harvester next to the ground. It's great to see such a big following from you this weekend, our biggest away crowd of the season which is amazing considering it’s your longest trip. Hope everyone enjoys their day out, apart from the game!
