Monk Is "Breath Of Fresh Air" For Premier League, Claims Newcastle Boss McClaren

Swansea City boss Garry Monk has been a "breath of fresh air" for the Barclays Premier League, believes Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren. The 36-year-old took over as Swans manager in February 2014 after being promoted from the club's playing staff, succeeding Michael Laudrup, and he led the Welsh side to an eighth-place finish during his first full season in charge last time out, something McClaren described as "very, very impressive". McClaren was effusive in his praise of his Premier League counterpart - as well as for Swansea's chairman and the club itself for putting faith in their young boss. The Magpies travel to the Liberty Stadium to face Swansea on Saturday (3pm kick-off), with both sides fresh from respective 2-2 draws against Southampton and champions Chelsea. And, speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, McClaren said of Monk (NUFCTV, paywall):

"(He's a) breath of fresh air really. "As I say, I don't know old he is but he certainly looks a lot younger than I do. "He's certainly adapted well and that must be not just credit to him but his backroom staff, the chairman, the club as a whole. "I think it's one of them that has continued its rise and gone all the way through the leagues, consolidated, got into Europe and won at Wembley, won a cup, and that's huge credit to the chairman and to the managers who've come in and adapted. "Garry Monk, a one so young, who's come in and got them playing. I know how difficult managing in the Premier League is and for him to do that at such a young age is very, very impressive."

For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow WhatCulture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.