Swansea’s next two fixtures – against last season’s play-off semi-finalists Millwall and promotion favourites West Ham United – are a reminder of that.
But for this challenge against Norwich, Matos suggested there was some inspiration taken by the presence of a side iconic in the Welsh club’s identity.
Former Wales and Real Madrid boss Toshack – who also shares a Liverpool connection with former Anfield development coach Matos – was warmly applauded before kick-off, acknowledging supporters from a wheelchair in his first trip to his old club from his home in Spain since becoming seriously ill in 2022.
Asked if if he felt any sense of pressure given Toshack’s presence, Matos said: “No the opposite, much more enjoyment and much more honour to be part of a club with this kind of history.
“I think that’s always how you need to look to history, it’s not a bag that you carry, it’s something that you are proud of taking with you and that’s what we are doing.
“They know the club much more than me, they leave the club much more than me, I’m here to honour them and to make this a place that they feel as well honoured.
“We have still a lot to arrive there (the Premier League), but it’s always nice to be with people who were there.”
Despite celebrations after Moussa Yeo and Adam Idah sealed the win over Norwich, Matos reminded fans that Swansea have plenty to do and pointed out that a year ago the side were threatened by relegation.
“I think it’s a good feeling, of course, but we know as well that it’s a long season,” said Matos.
“Even before the game, we were speaking that there’s so many games to come. This time last year I was not even here, and in the end we got in some moments really close to a play-off position – so the league can change so much and can drift so much.
“There’s still a transfer window in January which can change completely the league again, so we know that’s a lot to come.
“But we know as well that our goal is just to focus on the next game and try to be the most competitive team against any opponent.”
