Thursday, February 20, 2014

Europa League: Swansea host Italian giants Napoli at the Liberty Stadium

Rafael Benitez returns to the UK as his Napoli side take on Swansea in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 clash (kick-off 8.05pm).
The former Liverpool and Chelsea boss is bidding to become the first manager to win the competition with three different clubs.
After success with Valencia in the UEFA Cup in 2004, the Spaniard secured a dramatic victory in what was his final game as Chelsea boss in the Blues' success over Benfica in Amsterdam last May.
And his Napoli side, who were knocked out of the Champions League group stage on goal difference, will be strong favourites against Swansea, with rookie boss Gary Monk taking charge of his first European tie.
However, the Welsh club have already sprung some surprise results on the continent this season, with their 3-0 victory over Valencia in the Mestalla the pick of the bunch.
After three successive home defeats, Swansea have won their last two at the Liberty Stadium in the Premier League without conceding, and will need to be resolute to keep out the Italians on Thursday night.
The omens are certainly in the Swans' favour, however. The Azzurri have never won a European game against a side from England, Wales or Scotland, losing seven of their eight trips to the United Kingdom.

Team news

Swansea boss Garry Monk is set to field a more familiar-looking team from the one that made an FA Cup fifth-round exit at Everton last weekend.
Jonjo Shelvey could be involved following recent hamstring trouble, while Alejandro Pozuelo is available again after recovering from a hip injury. However, star striker Michu's return from ankle surgery remains on hold.
It had been hoped that the Spaniard could play some part in the first-leg encounter at the Liberty Stadium, but he is still feeling soreness and will miss training for the next couple of days.
Pepe Reina and Gonzalo Higuain are in the Napoli squad.
Higuain was in doubt after hurting his back at the weekend and the striker and Valon Behrami did not train with their teammates. Goalkeeper Reina only trained in part with the others, but he too is included in the trip to Wales.
Defender Federico Fernandez is suspended, while Juan Camilo Zuniga and Giandomenico Mesto are long-term absentees.

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