Clement hails Swansea’s ‘fantastic spirit’ after survival

Swansea City boss Paul Clement admitted he couldn’t bear to watch Crystal Palace’s 4-0 win over Hull, a result which confirmed the Swans’ Premier League status for another season.

Clement has masterminded an incredible escape from relegation after taking over a side that had won just three out of 19 matches and were sitting rock bottom in the table.

But a remarkable run, overseen by Clement, has resulted in the Swans picking up eight wins in 18 matches to help the Welsh side stay up.

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Clement said: “I actually decided not to watch the game and went out for a run instead.

“When I came back in I was tempted to put it back on but waited another 15 minutes before I checked.

“Palace were leading 2-0 and shortly after that they got their penalty and at that point (3-0) I knew we were going to be safe.

“All sorts of things had been going through my mind when I was out running, what is going on in the game and all sorts of scenarios depending on the result but fortunately it went our way this time.”

The former Real Madrid assistant manager praised his side’s character for defying the odds and surviving for a sixth Premier League season in a row.

He added: “They are a very hard-working group with a fantastic spirit.

“Myself, Huw Jenkins and the owners will have discussions this weekend and early next week to decide how we move forward.”