Midweek "rest" gives Swansea City a chance to put in more valuable preparation

Russell Martin will use the opportunity of a “free week” to build on the good progress made by his Swansea City squad.

Despite being beaten 2-1 at Birmingham City last weekend, the club’s third game in six days, Martin has been encouraged by the improvements made by his players since his arrival in August.

A 3-0 south Wales derby victory over Cardiff City was followed up by a 2-1 comeback win over West Brom as Martin tasted consecutive triumphs in the league for the first time as Swans boss.

The Birmingham trip proved a match too much for Martin’s squad as they signed off a hugely demanding period.

The Swans return to action this Saturday against Peterborough, and with no midweek match it gives Martin the chance to get more of his ideas across to his players on the training pitch.

“We are nowhere near the finished article. I said that after two great results,” said Martin.

“With no pre-season we are still playing catch up.

“The players are in a much better place physically than they were, but I think it has just taken its toll.

“There will be some guys who need to get some work in and there are some who will need rest, but a free week is brilliant for us and it’s more time to work.

“We haven’t been blessed with time when we came here. We have a lot of work to do and we have a bit of time to get some in this week.”