Joe Allen will head to Wigan this weekend with the Swans knowing that they daren't lose three in a row

Joe Allen will head to Wigan this weekend with the Swans knowing that they daren't lose three in a row

Back to back defeats to Norwich and Stoke have meant the Swans progress into the top half of the table has been halted but a win at Wigan on Saturday will ease the nerves and ease them further clear than they are of the bottom 3 - a figure currently standing at 9 points.

“It’s vital we don’t lose three in a row,” admitted Allen in today's Western Mail

“This is the first time we’ve lost back-to-back games all season, it’s disappointing but there’s no shame in that.

“We’ve strong characters in our changing room and we’ll have the same attitude we’ve had all season.

“We’ve got to put this game behind us, tighten up on a few aspects and go and play the way we always do.

“We don’t surround the ref and make a big fuss of decisions.

“We don’t try and get players booked and I think sometimes, though it shouldn’t, does work against us."

Allen also admitted that he was surprised to see coach Raymond Verheijen leave Wales last week and he said 

“It was a big shock. We almost hear the same as everyone else. I don’t really know the full story of what’s gone on, but it’s always disappointing to see people leave.

“He (Verheijen) had a big role to play in the system and a big influence on the squad in previous games.

“He’ll be missed, but we all collectively have to make sure it doesn’t affect the team.

“We’ve waited a long time for this game to show our love and respect to a great man in Gary Speed. We’re looking forward to a great turn-out and to face a test in Costa Rica.

“We all look forward now to a bright future for Wales and being part of it,” said Allen.

“We lost a great manager and a great man, we all know that. Chris Coleman knows that but he’s a great manager himself.”

“He can step in with his ideas and take us to a new level.”

Photo: Action Images

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