Dyer: Garry has made me believe in myself

SWANSEA winger Nathan Dyer believes new head coach Garry Monk has already shown that he shares some managerial expertise with former boss Roberto Martinez.

Monk has seen his side pick up four points from a possible six in the League since succeeding Michael Laudrup, and he has the chance to test himself against mentor Martinez when the Swans travel to face Everton in the FA Cup fifth round today.

Martinez is widely credited with putting in place the passing philosophy which has served Swansea so well in their climb through the leagues, and Monk has readily expressed his admiration for the Spaniard and current Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers.

Dyer, 26, was signed by Martinez, who he credits with helping his career take off after leaving Southampton, and can already see signs Monk has learned from the Toffees’ boss.

“Managers like Roberto and Brendan Rodgers have that man management skill which is massive for players,” he said.

“There are always going to be players who are not playing and they need to believe they’re still good players, and it’s about getting them to work for you.

“Roberto did that for me when I first came here.

“He made me feel like I was Cristiano Ronaldo — I was on cloud nine and worked as hard as possible.

“Garry is similar. I have played with him for so many years and he’ll always say to me what my qualities are and that I should keep going.

“He made me believe in myself, and I am sure he will do that for other players too.

“He has a lot of knowledge and has been club captain for years.

“His knowledge is great, and he’s good to work with.”

If Swansea are to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, they will need to create history.

The Swans have not beaten Everton in their 18 previous meetings, dating back to 1931.

But, having recently beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford for the first time in the third round last month, Dyer sees no reason why Swansea cannot record another club first.

“Since I’ve been here history has been created all over the place,” he added.

“Everton are our bogey team and we want to stop that rut and get a win against them.

“Seeing our old manager, you always want to do well against them.

“The whole atmosphere of the FA Cup is legendary, and anything can happen.”