When Swansea were thrashed 4-0 at Burnley last weekend, Russell Martinwould have feared that his side’s previous excellent form had come to an end.
That feeling was strengthened when the Swans found themselves two goals down at home to Reading three days later, but the manner of their comeback suggests that they have the character to remain contenders for promotion to the Premier League.
Although Swansea have shipped six goals in three halves of football, their fightback to win 3-2 has left the club in seventh spot and just three points adrift of leaders Queens Park Rangers.
With six wins coming from eight games, there is an argument that Martin’s side are one of the form teams in the division, and motivation will rarely have been higher to overcome their rivals.
Swansea also have the confidence of prevailing from both showdowns last season with 3-0 and 4-0 victories, Cardiff having only won one of the last seven meetings.
Caretaker boss Mark Hudson would have thought at one stage that he was perfectly placed to earn the role on a permanent basis with seven points coming from his first three games.
However, losing to Coventry City and Queens Park Rangers without getting on the scoresheet means that the result of Sunday’s derby could make or break his chances of remaining in the dugout on a long-term basis.
The Bluebirds’ chances in the latter game were hindered by the early red card for Jack Simpson, something which will not be lost on the club’s hierarchy.
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Nevertheless, Cardiff have not suffered three defeats in a row in the second tier since April, and Hudson knows that he needs to instigate a turnaround in order to ensure that they do not become embroiled in a relegation battle, the current gap to 22nd place standing at four points.
Swansea will again be without top goalscorer Joel Piroe as he continues to serve a suspension for his dismissal at Burnley.Martin could opt to select the side which started against Reading, although
Olivier Ntcham is in contention for a recall if fresh legs are preferred.Cardiff are also dealing with a ban with Simpson sitting out this contest, an absence which should lead to Curtis Nelson returning to the defence.
