Guidolin close to Swansea exit after Liverpool defeat with Giggs waiting in the wings
SWANSEA chiefs spent the weekend locked in talks over the future of Francesco Guidolin after the defeat the Italian admitted he could not afford to suffer.
Posted Monday, October 03, 2016 by Express.co.uk
Swansea boss Frencesco Guidolin is likely to be axed and replaced by Ryan Giggs
In fairness to the 60-year-old, this was his side's best performance of the season, particularly a first 45 minutes where they had control and deservedly led through Leroy Fer's close-range finish.
But, after showing signs of establishing a foothold at the end of the first half, Liverpool fought back through Roberto Firmino's header and James Milner's penalty - following some cataclysmic Swansea defending - to bring up Jurgen Klopp's one-year anniversary in style.
As a result Guidolin looks unlikely to follow the German in being at the helm for 12 months, with chairman Huw Jenkins and American owners Steve Kaplan and Jason Levien holding discussions about the best path forward for a club lying one place above the drop zone.
A decision is expected early this week.
Ryan Giggs and Bob Bradley have been approached, and not all that discreetly it should be added, although there are thought to be reservations about the Welshman's lack of managerial experience.
There are understood to be at least two other names in the frame, although improved performances against Liverpool and Manchester City mean sticking with Guidolin - who has returned to his native Italy for the international break - has not been ruled out.
Indeed, had record signing Borja Baston and defender Mike van der Hoorn not wasted three gilt-edged chances between them, Swansea could easily have been celebrating a first win since the opening day of the season.
But some choice half-time words from Klopp - who was appointed on October 8 last year - got his side back on track and he has encouraged Reds' fans to dream that they can bring an end to their long wait for a league title.
"It's all about us, first and foremost. We have to create hope, dreams, whatever," said Klopp.
"The only problem is that the coaches and players cannot hope and we cannot dream.
"But everyone else is allowed. So far this season it's a very positive thing to talk about but we have to go out and do it.
"I know I have been here for a year, but I do not want to reflect. I hope no-one brings me a cake.
"I hope to be here for many years and it is about being ready for the next challenge."
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