"It's No Easy Game"

Roberto Rules Out Complacency

Ten days ago the Swans brushed aside Walsall in the Carling Cup with a comfortable 2-0 win by a second string side at the Liberty Stadium. With so many first teamers missing that evening it would be almost natural to assume that a full strength side will breeze past the Saddlers in Saturday's league fixture. That is something that manager Roberto Martinez is keen to avoid as he prepares his side looking for their first win of the league season.

Roberto has been around in football long enough to know that the old cliche of "no easy games" rings true and a trip to his former side is not going to be a sure fire win for the Swans. Martinez was part of the Swansea side that triumphed there on their last league visit but two years on, things are very different - Roberto having stepped up from captain to manager being just one of them.

Speaking ahead of the game, Roberto told the Evening Post "If anyone is expecting an easy game they are making a big mistake. When we beat them at home they were coming off the back of a difficult game at the weekend.

"They didn't have much time to recover and they probably found it difficult to perform on the pitch at the Liberty. They needed 50 or 60 minutes to cope with the tempo we imposed on the game.

"But it will be completely different at the Bescot.

"They have experienced players who know how to put you under pressure, how to score goals and how to compete at home in particular.

"Their home record last season (they lost just three league games) was amazing and since then they have added a number of experienced players who have improved them.

"If they are lucky with injuries, I think Walsall will have a good season and I know they will be keen to get back at us after we beat them last week. It's going to be a very difficult game."

The game will contain a tinge of sadness after the tragic death this week of young Walsall player Anton Reid. Reid collapsed and died at the club on Monday and, as well as a minutes silence before the game, Swansea fans are being encouraged to enter the 50-50 draw at half time where all profits will go to the youngsters family.

"It has been a very traumatic week and we've been struggling to come to terms with what has happened," Saddlers boss Richard Money admitted.

"But wherever you are in life the harsh reality is that it has to go on. And the best way we can pay our respects to Anton, his family, friends and especially his mum who is a remarkable woman, is to go and give a rousing performance."

What are your thoughts? Share your views on the Message Board