Swansea take on Bristol City in mid-table battle

Swansea City host Bristol City at the Swansea.com Stadium this afternoon, with both sides looking to find the panacea to their inconsistencies.

On a weekend where Welsh Rugby came to prominence, the scrummage of ‘who dislikes Cardiff the most’ comes into bind today.

Russell Martin’s side, who seemed to have taken a step forward after their win over Blackburn, come into it after a disappointing 3-0 defeat at Stoke City.

Aston Villa loanee Jaden Philogene-Bidace scored just after half-time, but Ryan Bennett’s red card – Swans’ second in as many matches – killed the game before Lewis Baker and Jacob brown netted late on.

Bristol City, in contrast, defeated relegation-threatened Reading 2-1 at Ashton Gate. Despite domination from the visitors, Antoine Semenyo and Michael Morrison’s own goal early in the second half was only waived by the consolation of John Swift’s spot-kick.

Team news

Joe Williams could be given the nod in the Bristol City midfield, despite the expectation that Han-Noah Massengo will shake off a hip injury.

Although Ryan Manning will return to the Swansea back three after serving a ban, Bennett is sidelined courtesy of that red card he collected in the Midlands.

Martin could name a more attack-minded team than the one which lined up in the Potteries, similar to the strategy which worked versus Blackburn last weekend.

That should see Jamie Paterson line up in a creative area, with Jay Fulton potentially dropping down to the substitutes’ bench.

History

In the past, Swansea have won 22 matches – with Bristol City winning 29 and the fixture ending level 21 times. Swansea won 1-0 last time out via Joel Piroe’s rebounded finish, and will hope he can do something similar in South Wales.

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