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Reputations Mean Nothing?

Garry Monk says that players 'reputations are on the line' as the club look to secure their Premier League survival for another season and prepare for a double header on the road at Everton and Arsenal.

With just a four point gap to the relegation places in the division it is a massive few days for the Swans who know that two defeats in the games could leave them facing a nervy build up to next weekend when another side threatened with the drop - Norwich - arrive at the Liberty Stadium.

And it is probably fair to say that as far as relegation goes, reputations mean nothing as it is only the action on the pitch that dictate what happens come the end of the season.

The Swans have thrown away two winning positions in their last two games - at home to Crystal Palace and West Brom - and need to get themselves out of that habit in the coming weeks if they are to ensure their survival and all the financial benefits that go with it.

Garry Monk goes into his 9th game at the helm of the club on Saturday and he says that he has no doubts over the players at his disposal or their attitude shown since the disappointment of last weekend and the defeat against the Baggies

"I've got no question at all over the players that are here." he told BBC Sport

"At the end of the day they realise what's at stake for themselves. Their attitude has been spot on, working very well again this week and they want to do well.

"When you get questioned, you tend to get a reaction and hopefully that's the case this weekend."

The Swans know that safety is in their own hands and much has been said this week about the level of performance needed in the games coming up with safety looking likely to be at a level of points less than the 40 point barrier often talked about in this division.

"Everyone always talks about the 40-point [safety] mark, but a lot of the teams have to play each other. A lot will drop points and a lot will get points." Monk added

"You have to be honest with people. I told them after the game [against West Brom] what I felt. They are all in it together and pushing each other.

"I am more than confident that in the coming games we will earn enough points to achieve what we want to achieve."

Monks confidence is something that we all hope is not misplaced. During his previous eight games we have seen some high tempo committed performances but also some poor performances particularly in the last two games which could have done much to ease any relegation fears that we may have had.

Tomorrow however is another day and as Monk says - it is time to put those reputations on the line and prove that we deserve another year at the top table.

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