Newcastle lock Swinson rejects Leeds 'must-win' talk

Swinson has made 20 appearances for Falcons this season

Newcastle back-row forward Tim Swinson has rejected talk that Sunday's Premiership encounter against Leeds Carnegie is a 'must-win' for the club.

Falcons are only three points and one place clear of bottom club Leeds, with both sides losing four of their last five matches in all competitions.

Swinson told BBC Newcastle: "People will point to the fact that it is two bottom teams and has added importance.

"But we don't see this as our only chance to get points or a win."

Swinson added: "Obviously it's an important game but they're all important in the Premiership.

"You've got to build confidence, and the next game is the first chance we get to do that, and we need to get a win."

The 24-year-old recently signed a new deal at Kingston Park, and has been a regular for the club this season, making 20 appearances.

One factor in that decision has been the closeness within the squad, amid a difficult season for Falcons head coach Alan Tait and his side.

"A lot of the senior players are really stepping up and showing their belief systems, and that's what we really need at the moment," Swinson continued.

"We're a good strong squad, staying together, we all went down to watch the second team in Northampton last night, we're going out to dinner as a team tonight, and we're sticking strong as a squad."

Falcons last match on the Kingston Park turf against Exeter ended in a 23-13 defeat, while Leeds lost 39-0 to Saracens at Vicarage Road.