Western Mail

Bielsa’s not surprised by Swans’ form so far

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LEEDS United manager Marcelo Bielsa admits he’s not surprised by Swansea City’s stunning start to the 2019/20 campaign.

The Whites host Steve Cooper’s side at Elland Road this weekend in what is a top-of-thetable clash, with both sides claiming 13 points from their opening five Championsh­ip fixtures of the season.

Swansea are yet to lose under their new head coach, winning six and drawing one of their seven games in all competitio­ns under the 39-yearold so far.

And Bielsa (above) says Swansea have deserved their positive results in the opening weeks of the new campaign.

“Swansea City are showing a good level, they have a very clear idea on how to play,” said Bielsa.

“They are a solid team, they know how to defend and how to attack and at the same time they have good links in transition­s from defence to attack and attack to defence. I am not surprised about Swansea’s start to the season, because they have deserved to get the results they have.

“They’ve got players from last year and have made some additions.”

Leeds are currently ahead of Swansea in the table on goal difference, although Cooper’s troops will take top spot if they can emerge victorious in west Yorkshire this weekend.

The Swans are set to be without Aldo Kalulu and Nathan Dyer for the clash with the league leaders.

Defender Luke Ayling and Wales internatio­nal Tyler Roberts are both unavailabl­e for Leeds.

■ The much-anticipate­d South Wales derby between Swansea City and bitter rivals Cardiff City will be shown live on Sky Sports.

The game at the Liberty Stadium, initially penciled in for Saturday, October 26, will now take place on Sunday, October 27, with a noon

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