Swansea City facing 'defining' nine-game period says Garry Monk

Swansea drew with Crystal Palace at home last season but won at Selhurst Park
Swansea drew with Crystal Palace at home last season but won at Selhurst Park

Garry Monk says Swansea City's next nine games will define their season.

The manager says the focus is to reach 40 points - seen as the tally required to ensure Premier League survival.

The Swans begin a busy spell at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, then have eight league matches before facing leaders Chelsea on 17 January.

"When we come out of that nine-game period we will know where we are in the league and if we can push on," Monk said.

"Or, if there's something we need to quickly address, make sure we don't get dragged down into a relegation fight.

"Of course, the main focus will always be to get to 40 points as soon as possible, hopefully throughout that period we can get to somewhere near... sooner rather than later."

After playing Palace, Swansea face a period that will see them take on Queens Park Rangers twice, West Ham twice, Tottenham, Hull, Aston Villa and Liverpool.

"Our focus is on now and Crystal Palace, and if we can get three points then great," Monk added.

"You can't look too far ahead although obviously I plan ahead for the team and what we're going to do.

"I'd love to get into the Europa League but that's not my focus... our focus is on trying to win the next game."