Russell Martin lauded Matty Sorinola's performance against Blackpool after admitting he had been "unforgiving" with the Swansea City loanee.
Sorinola was a regular in the team earlier on in the season after joining on loan from Belgian outfit Union SG but has found game time increasingly difficult to come by, particularly since the World Cup break.
The 21-year-old was handed his first league start in just shy of two months against Blackpool on Wednesday night as Martin deployed wing-backs, having stuck to a back four of late.
READ MORE: Russell Martin proud but frustrated with Swansea City players after anxious night
Sorinola took his chance to shine with both hands, scoring a slick volley before delivering a teasing cross that led to Callum Connolly turning into his own net as the Swans clinched all three points against the Seasiders to move back into the top half of the Championship table.
"I thought he was outstanding, really good," said Martin. "I've been guilty of being a little bit harsh with Matty because I know him so well and played with him and then had him at MK where he got a move after doing some brilliant stuff.
"He started the season really well, but it's just so natural, the Championship can eat you up physically. Fear can creep in a little bit and he wasn't as positive as I know he can be, but there's been a real spring in his step.
"Sometimes I forget how tough it is. I'm asking people to understand how tough it is, but it is really difficult to be as brave as we're asking them to be.
"We've done a lot of work with the players, talking about fear and surrendering to it and just being themselves. I said to Matty, I've been a bit unforgiving on him, that's on me. I just want the best for him and all of the players.
"It's just about understanding what people need at certain at times and it's just been nice to see him smiling for a couple weeks. I felt he deserves his opportunity and I'm really pleased for him that he did so well. We have a decision to make on Saturday now because he did so well but he hasn't played for a long time."
Sorinola ended the clash with Mick McCarthy's side having had two shots on target while also making three key passes and two clearances.
Indeed, Martin now has plenty to ponder as the Swans prepare to lock horns with Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Saturday before welcoming Stoke City to the Swansea.com Stadium on Tuesday night.
Joe Allen, Liam Cullen, Liam Walsh and Morgan Whittaker are among those vying to get more minutes during what is a hectic schedule for Martin's side. And the head coach revealed Kyle Naughton is fit and available having missed out on a place in the matchday squad against Blackpool.
"We have three games in seven days, we had to leave Kyle Naughton out which was difficult," he said. "We decided to be aggressive with the bench in terms of attacking options. We have a really small squad but a really strong one.
"In these three games with such a short turnaround, I hope that we can utilise the squad, manage it well and pick up as many points as possible."
READ NEXT:
