Russell Martin | We love this group of players and what they are giving us

Russell Martin pointed to two big results and performances as proof Swansea City are heading in the right direction.

The Swans backed up their south Wales derby win over Cardiff City with a comeback victory against West Brom in SA1 thanks to goals from Joel Piroe and Jamie Paterson.

It is the first time in 12 years that the Swans have followed up a derby win with another triumph.

The magnitude of their victory over the second-placed Baggies is increased given they had just two days fewer than the visitors to prepare.

And Martin, who saw his side claimed consecutive Championship wins for the first time under his leadership, feels his players are showing progression each week.

“We love this group of players and what they are giving us. They are given us everything – no egos,” said the Swans boss.

“We didn’t have a pre-season together. We are building. The performances are improving particularly after the international breaks.

“We have added some real quality and composure in the final third. That’s down to the players, not us.

“They are two big results, and not just that they are big performances.

“We believe in what we do, and the way we play.”

A run of just one defeat in eight games has propelled the Swans up to 15th in the table with 17 points from 13 games.

Martin has been pleased with the way his team is developing relationships on the pitch and their improvement in front of goal, but he points out the Swans have lots more work to do before they get close to fulfilling their potential.

“We are nowhere near where we want to get to. We are not getting carried away,” said Martin.

“There are things we definitely need to improve on from the West Brom game.

“But the performances and results give validation to what we’re doing.

“If we are going to be the team we all eventually want to be with time, we have to back it up on Saturday against Birmingham.”