Garry Monk credited last year's pre-season with a lot of credit behind his side's opening day shock win at Manchester United and he is just as happy with how this year is progressing.

The Swans boss - fresh on the back of signing his three year contract on Friday takes his side to Germany this week for the first of their pre-season fixtures with the new season now less than four weeks away.

And the new season does not start any easier with Champions Chelsea awaiting for the Swans at Stamford Bridge on the opening day - a game that will open the Sky Sports live coverage of the new season.

So Monk is well aware of the importance of keeping his preparations as strong as last season with one of their toughest tests awaiting first up

“Our pre-season preparations last year were excellent and it was one of the main reasons we were able to go to Manchester United on the opening day of the campaign and come away with all three points,” said Monk.

“So it’s important we do all the right preparation again for the new campaign.
“The boys have come back for pre-season in good condition and trained very well over the last two weeks. They all know that the work needs to be done now to set us up for the season.”

Monk has been a busy man in the transfer market this summer too with the capture of goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfelt, defender Franck Tabanou and forwards Andre Ayew and Eder as he looks to try and eclipse last season's record breaking run that saw his team finish 8th in the Premier League with 56 points.

And he has praised the club for allowing him to strengthen so early - something that he knows is essential so that the new players have time to gel with the existing squad.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to get our new signings in early — the sooner the better - because it gives them time to settle in, learn our culture and see the way we work,” added Monk.

“We’ve definitely strengthened the areas we needed to. The additions look good and the squad looks stronger.”

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