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Garry Monk looks to future after defeat to Manchester City ends Europa League hopes

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Swansea City manager Garry Monk praised the character and effort of his side despite a 4-2 defeat to Manchester City at the Liberty Stadium.

Garry Monk hailed Swansea's record-breaking season, despite seeing his side lose their final home match of the campaign.

Monk saw his men come from 2-0 down against Manchester City to level at 2-2, before Yaya Toure’s second goal and Wilfried Bony’s late strike against his former club gave Manuel Pellegrini's side a 4-2 win.

“Obviously we’re disappointed with the result, but once again the players' character was there for everyone to see. But we gave as good as we got," said Monk.

“We had those great chances towards the end there but Joe Hart pulled off some great saves and that’s why he’s such an excellent keeper.”

Wilfred Bony of Manchester City celebrates after scoring his team's fourth goal against Swansea at the Liberty on May 17, 2015
Image: Wilfred Bony: The former Swansea player had a muted celebration

The England international made two stunning saves in quick succession to deny Federico Fernandez and then Bafetimbi Gomis late in the second half.

The defeat ended Swansea's hopes of competing in the Europa League next season but assured them of an eighth-placed finish - one spot higher than last term.

Monk added: "I think we've shown quite clearly with the run of form we've been on that we wanted to get into Europe.

"We pushed all the way to try to get there and it would have been a great reward for the season we've had.

"But hopefully now we have a chance to recruit properly and try to surpass what we have done this year in the Premier League, although we know it will be tough."

Joe Hart couldn't keep out Gylfi Sigurdsson's strike against Swansea
Image: Joe Hart: Produced two stunning saves against Swansea

He continued: "I think we proved we can do that – play football. We didn't quite get a result, but I think we have shown what a strong group we've got and hopefully next season we can be even better."

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