Matt Gill believes eradicating defensive mistakes will be key to Swansea City's chances of reigniting their play-off push this season.
The Swans looked well on course to challenge for a top six place earlier on in the campaign as a run of seven victories in nine league games propelled Russell Martin's men up to fourth place. However, they have since won just twice in 16 matches in all competitions to drop down to 15th ahead of Wednesday night's contest against Blackpool at the Swansea.com Stadium.
Key defensive errors have proven fatal this term, most recently against Sheffield United as Martin's men lost 3-0 at Bramall Lane on Saturday afternoon. But with three of the next four fixtures being played at home, Gill says Swansea have the opportunity to get their play-off hunt back on track.
READ MORE: What happened in the mini South Wales derby between Swansea City and Cardiff City
"I think there's an eight-game period between now and the international break," he said. "There's an opportunity to get closer [to the top six] and to turn performances into results. I think everybody's looking forward to this busy period. We've got lots of games coming up.
"On our good run previously, you win three out of four games and that gets you back in the mix. You need to avoid those moments in games that we've given away goals when perhaps we've been on top, the opposition team haven't had to do loads to score against us. We need to clean up those moments in games and I think the dominance will then turn into results."
Swansea go into the clash with Blackpool seven points behind Watford, who currently occupy the fourth and final play-off spot.
They could welcome Joel Latibeaudiere back from a calf injury after the defender missed the loss to Sheffield United while Liam Walsh will also be included having played 45 minutes for the under-21s against Cardiff City on Monday night.
"We're hoping so," said the assistant head coach when asked if Latibeaudiere would be available against the Tangerines. "Joel's going to be with the team today [Tuesday] on the grass but it'll only be his second day on the grass, so we're going to see how he comes through today. It's hopefully good news that Joel's back involved.
"Walshy's come back in brilliant shape. It's important that he gets as many minutes under his belt as possible. He was excellent again last night, he played 45 minutes in a very good game, the lads played really well. Cameron Congreve played a full 90 last night which puts him in a better place than he was previously. Walshy, he's come through the game fine and only playing 45 minutes means that he can be involved with us today and tomorrow."
Kick-off against Blackpool is at 7.45pm on Wednesday.
READ NEXT:
