Russell Martin excited to see Obafemi in action

Russell Martin is looking forward to seeing new signing Michael Obafemi on the pitch following the forward’s deadline day move to SA1.

The 21-year-old penned a three-year contract with the Swans in the final hours of Tuesday, making the switch from Southampton after five years with the club.

Head coach Martin believes that Obafemi brings Premier League pedigree and believes he can get off to a strong start to life as a Jack.

The gaffer spoke to some of the Republic of Ireland international’s peers at the Saints, and was given an encouraging account of his character and potential, and is now eagerly awaiting the chance to get Obafemi involved starting with his weekend’s clash with Hull.

“I spoke to Fraser Forster and Nathan Redmond about [Obafemi], and they gave a brilliant character reference,” said Martin.

“They both said that he just needs to find a home where he can play regularly, have a bit of love and find a connection with a club.

“Both said that he’s got so much potential, so it’s exciting for us.

“He’s powerful, got a lot of athleticism, got a good mentality. He’s someone the club’s been interested in for a long time, and he was close to joining in January, but obviously was unfortunate with an injury.

“Michael played in the Premier League at a very young age, and if he was a bit more fortunate with injuries, would have played in the Premier League regularly, I’m pretty sure of that.

“He’s young, and he’s ours, he’s not a loan signing, which makes him a brilliant signing for us.”