Bradley faces Swans rebellion

BOB BRADLEY is fighting to convince Swansea’s players that he is the right man to keep them in the Premier League, amid concerns over his training methods. And Sportsmail can reveal that tension over the club’s transfer plans is also threatening their hopes of avoiding relegation. Bradley replaced Francesco Guidolin on October 3 but has picked up just two wins from his 10 games, leaving the Swans second bottom of the table — above Hull City only on goal difference. And there is a feeling among a contingent in the squad that Bradley’s training methods are archaic and repetitive. The 58-year-old, who joined from French second division club Le Havre, had no previous experience in a top European league, though he did manage Egypt and the USA at international level. Swansea insist Bradley is not facing the sack, but the festive period is surely crucial for his prospects. Indeed, a recent dalliance with Sam Allardyce suggests the club are not convinced Bradley is the right man to lead their relegation fight. Swansea host West Ham on Boxing Day and Bournemouth on New Year’s Eve before then travelling to fellow strugglers Crystal Palace. Asked if he felt those three games could determine his future, Bradley said: ‘Maybe. I never know how that works and I don’t spend much time thinking about it. I knew it was a challenge. That’s football.’ Meanwhile, Swansea’s transfer strategy is being hampered by internal divisions. Data analysts hired by the club’s American owners have already rejected up to five January targets identified by the club’s existing scouts.