Get the latest Swans news sent straight to your inbox Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

With Leon Britton struggling to be fit for Swansea City’s Liberty Stadium clash with Manchester United, head coach Paul Clement looks set to find himself needing to hand over the captaincy for the lunchtime kick-off.

There are several candidates the 45-year-old could turn to, here we look at the men most likely to lead the Swans against Jose Mourinho’s men should Britton fail to recover from his back injury.

Wayne Routledge

The winger was handed the armband when Britton left the field at Southampton, and during the pre-season friendly win over Sampdoria.

Captained the side during pre-season a year ago, and is among the most experienced players in the Swans dressing room.

He has been regularly praised for his tactical discipline and understanding of game by several Swans bosses, including Paul Clement.

Not the most vocal presence, but is highly-respected by his colleagues.

Federico Fernandez

Fernandez was the third man to wear the armband at St Mary’s when Routledge followed Britton in being substituted.

Centre-half partner Alfie Mawson is the more vocal of the defensive duo, but Fernandez is an accomplished performer and his form under Clement has been close to the outstanding showings during his first season in SA1.

Was part of the Argentina squad that reached the 2014 World Cup final and has played top-flight football in his homeland, Italy, Spain and England.

Well-travelled and has more experience to call on than Mawson.

Alfie Mawson

He had not played Premier League football less than a year ago, but Mawson has quickly and impressively grown into an assured and reliable top-flight performer.

He is a natural leader, and seems to enjoy the task of setting an example and playing a part in organising matters at the back.

Still only 23, but relished the chance to be a senior figure for England Under-21s in the summer and has made no secret of his desire to take on the responsibility at club and international level.

But will Clement feel it best to continue to let the former Barnsley man focus on his own game?

Lukasz Fabianski

(Image: South Wales Evening Post)

A consistent, experienced performer and a guaranteed starter in goal.

The Poland international is a senior figure in the dressing room and carries a calm air of authority.

He captained Arsenal during his time at the Emirates and he is a vocal presence on the field.

He may have had a tough season at times last year as the Swans leaked goals at an alarming rate, but was among the best performers at Southampton.

Leroy Fer

The Dutchman is said to have grown into a senior role in the Swansea dressing room and enjoyed taking on more responsibility.

Can be an influential on-field figure in midfield with his physicality and desire to drive forward.

Finished last season strongly although turned in a curate’s egg of a display at Southampton, dangerous when he burst forward but struggling with some of his defensive duties.