Swansea City: Garry Monk backs Bafetimbi Gomis after barren run

Bafetimbi Gomis (left) joined Swansea City from Lyon in June 2014

Swansea City manager Garry Monk has refused to blame striker Bafetimbi Gomis for his goalless run.

The 30-year-old France international has gone six Premier League games without a goal - having scored in each of the opening four top-flight matches.

The Swans host Arsenal on Saturday, with Gomis having struck in both games last season to help Monk's men achieve a notable double.

"The pressure is on everybody, not one particular person," said Monk.

"The pressure is always on every single game for you to perform.

"That is the level we are at, we understand those expectations. No-one puts more pressure on us than ourselves. We know how well we can perform and what we are capable of.

"'It's important we try and reach those levels more often than not. Everyone will go through periods where they dip and when they are producing their best football but we do it as a collective.

"Saturday is not about who gets the goals - it's about the team performing and trying to win the game. Whoever scores the goals really does not matter."

Bafetimbi Gomis celebrates his goal in Swansea City's 1-0 win away against Arsenal in May 2015

Swansea's win at Aston Villa last Saturday was their first in seven league and cup games.

After the victory there was an incident in the tunnel which led to Villa defender Micah Richards being charged with improper conduct by the Football Association.

However, no action was taken over a clash between Richards and Swansea defender Federico Fernandez.

"I was in the changing room. I came out when whatever had happened had finished," said Monk.

"I am more than confident in terms of my players. I have spoken to the players from our side. There was nothing at all, so that is obviously the right decision.''

Meanwhile, Swans winger Wayne Routledge has returned to training following a calf problem.