\n<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Former Wales and Real Madrid boss Toshack \u2013 who also shares a Liverpool connection with former Anfield development coach Matos \u2013 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“We have still a lot to arrive there (the Premier League), but it’s always nice to be with people who were there.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“I think it’s a good feeling, of course, but we know as well that it’s a long season,” said Matos.<\/p>\n
“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. <\/p>\n
“There’s still a transfer window in January which can change completely the league again, so we know that’s a lot to come.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n