Jefferson Montero ready to rejoin Swansea relegation fight
Wednesday 15 March 2017 13:48, UK
Jefferson Montero insists he is ready to fight for a place in Swansea's side after injury and help keep them in the Premier League.
The Edcuador international has not played for Swansea since the 4-1 Boxing Day defeat to West Ham due to injuries.
Montero made his comeback as Swansea's Under-23 side sealed the Premier League 2 title against Wolves on Monday night and the 27-year-old is now looking to earn a first-team spot ahead of his side's trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.
"I was very happy to be back on the pitch," Montero said, after getting an hour of action on Monday. "It's been a very difficult season for me.
"I was out for four weeks with a broken hand and then another 10 weeks with the hamstring injury. It's been very frustrating.
"There is obviously a big difference between training and playing, but the hour has given me a lot of confidence to push for a first-team place again."
Montero has proved a popular figure with Swansea supporters since signing from Mexican club Atletico Morelia in the summer of 2014.
However, he has made only two league starts this season and has not featured since Paul Clement took charge at the start of January.
"The team has done really well since the new head coach has come in," Montero told the official Swansea website.
"Training has been tough and intense, but he's given everyone confidence and the rewards have come on the pitch.
"Now with 27 points we have a chance (to stay up).
"Mentally I am strong. I'm determined to fight my way back into the first-team frame and play my part in helping the club secure its Premier League status."
