Jonas Gutierrez has declared himself ready to play his part in Norwich City's survival battle after recovering from a calf injury.

The 30-year-old has made just two appearances for the Canaries since completing a loan move from Newcastle in January but hopes to be back in contention for a starting place at Swansea City on Saturday.

Gutierrez, who last started for City in the 2-1 defeat at Cardiff, admitted to being a frustrated onlooker over the last month and is determined to consign his recent injury troubles to the past.

'In the nine years that I've been in Europe, I've never had a lot of injuries so I've been able to play quite a lot, but that is football,' he said. 'I am ready to do my best and be back in contention. I'm happy that we got the three points last weekend and I want to help. The most important thing is to be ready if the manager needs me.'

Gutierrez was an unused substitute for City's win over Sunderland last weekend when Alex Tettey's wonderful volley rendered any previous debate over the club's goal of the season null and void.

However, it was the reaction of the players to the Norwegian's goal that caught Gutierrez's eye as a united front emerged from the recent gloom that had engulfed Chris Hughton's side.

'I think all the players were so happy about his goal,' the Argentinian international told canaries.co.uk. 'It was a magnificent goal. We were all happy because it helped us in that situation and it was a great moment.

'I think since I came here I've watched how the group is, and how they always try to be together and work hard to help each other. That is one of the biggest things that Norwich have.

'We're a tough group to beat and all the players want the best for the team.'

Gutierrez admitted City's next three games are crucial as they look to gather enough points to pull away from the relegation zone.

'I think we made a big step in the last game, but now we have to focus on these next three games. They are really important because we are playing teams who are in the same position or a similar position to us, so now we're just looking forward.'