Russell Martin admits Swansea City's woeful first half showing at Hull City fully highlighted that further work needs to be done in the transfer window, with Jamie Paterson once again missing.
The Swans conceded two early goals at the MKM Stadium, with efforts from Tom Eaves and Keane Lewis-Potter earning the Tigers a 2-0 triumph over the Swans.
It was Swansea's first Championship defeat of 2022 and served as a timely reminder that the squad is desperately lacking in certain areas ahead of Monday's deadline.
And Martin could not hide his frustrations over Swansea's defensive struggles early on in the north east of England.
"It's decided the game," said Martin when asked about his side's performance in the opening 45 against Shota Arveladze's outfit.
"We have really clear detail on how to defend. If there was any ambiguity or grey area I would accept that maybe they score from a cross, but there's none.
"The reason we kept clean sheets in the last two games is because we've worked relentlessly on certain details, and we haven't done it today.
"Two really bad goals to concede. In the first half, not enough energy. I get it, we've had two away games this week. We've gone from no games in five weeks. But it's not an excuse.
"The lack of intensity was disappointing and there was a lack of the courage that we've shown in recent games. We didn't react well to conceding the first goal and didn't look threatening enough. The second half was the opposite. We should score.
"I've said all along that we need help in certain areas. I think that's more evident than ever in the second half because we had better chances than Hull had. It's really simple. But I really liked what I saw in the second half.
"Joel Piroe misses a chance from six yards. He's very tired. There's been a heavy burden on him. Michael [Obafemi] should score. Two or three great opportunities.
"But we've really hurt ourselves. Hull haven't had to work hard to score two goals."
READ MORE: Swansea City defender set for exit, Bristol City striker linked and two Jamie Paterson bids rejected
The Swans were again without one of their main creators in Paterson who has been the subject of two transfer bids from Queens Park Rangers.
Both of those offers from the Hoops were rejected by the Swans who feel the Londoners are way short in their valuation of the 30-year-old.
And Martin says he is desperate for the winter window to close as he plans to welcome back Paterson into his squad should the playmaker remain at the club.
"We need some help at the top end of the pitch where we've created so many chances in the last four or five games and we haven't scored enough goals. So I think it's really clear," added the head coach.
"Pato being out has really hurt us. We have to be relentless in our pursuit for the vision of the team that we want, otherwise what's the point?"
And on the rejected bids for Paterson, Martin said: "The figure that's been suggested that's been bid is so far away from reality.
"It's very far away from where the owners value Pato and where we would see him as well because of the contribution he's had this season.
"I just want the transfer window to shut so we know what's happening and I can have a proper chat with him. His head is scrambled, bless him. He doesn't know what's going on, he's finding it hard to focus and concentrate.
"His mental health is the most important thing. The situation could have been easily avoided I think, from all parties. Just one way or another I want it resolved.
"If he leaves, we have to replace him. He's been a big loss for us with the creativity he brings. This situation is only hurting him and us. The people who are really driving it, it's not hurting them. It'll be resolved in three days and I can't wait for the window to shut."
Swansea return to action against Luton Town on Tuesday night.
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