Russell Martin | Pato and Piroe do so much more than score

Swansea City boss Russell Martin praised Jamie Paterson and Joel Piroe’s defensive actions in his side’s 2-1 win away to Coventry City, pointing out that the pair contribute beyond their impressive goalscoring records.

The in-form attacking duo each scored early for the visitors to hand the Sky Blues their first home defeat of the season, despite a first-half goal by Kyle McFadzean that got the hosts back in the contest.

Piroe and Paterson's goals means they have now notched 15 of the Swans' 20 Championship goals combined.

But, while the pair have attracted headlines for their contributions in front of goal, Martin insists their performances without the ball have been equally as valuable to his side's recent success.

“Both of them have been incredible for us,” said Martin.

“Joel – just speaking about the defensive actions there – the defensive job he does for the team, first and foremost. Forget all the goals, his team-mates really appreciate that.

“We really appreciate that. He does some incredible things out of possession for us, in possession you see what he can do.

“He’s so clever; he links the game well; good movement; always in the right place, which is why he scored a goal tonight.

“And Pato, you run out of superlatives to describe Pato. He just keeps getting better, he just keeps learning.

“If you look back to the Birmingham game, we had a really good chat after it.

“And he’s gone back in the last two games to really understand his role and the confidence he has; the courage he has in possession.

“His team-mates definitely appreciate that.

“He deserved a goal, took it brilliantly, and, again, another one who defensively does so much for the team.

“He works so hard, and the guys are enjoying having him.”