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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Ian Mitchelmore

Russell Martin's honest Stoke City admission as Swansea City boss gives key team news updates ahead of Bristol City test

Russell Martin admits Swansea City's 3-0 defeat to Stoke City served up one of the harshest lessons of his coaching career to date.

The Swans were outclassed from start to finish at the bet365 Stadium on Tuesday night, with fatigue playing a significant part in the away side's lacklustre showing against the Potters.

And ahead of Sunday's Championship contest with Bristol City, the head coach held his hands up after stating he was wrong with team selection against Michael O'Neill's men.

"Tuesday was probably a sign of where we’re at. We've had seven games in just over three weeks," said Martin.

"After a break it’s been a really tough period for the guys. I think it was one game too many.

"It’s my fault, you try to pick a team and balance the squad, look at the minutes and try to take in account tiredness, mentality, and you try to put a team out you think is the right one. I got that wrong on Tuesday.

"I think I've learnt a lot from it. We weren’t having a great night with the ball because of our mentality and intensity. Ultimately I'm in charge of the team. It's my responsibility.

"I get things wrong, players get things wrong, we all do. We have to accept it. It’s about taking accountability making sure it doesn’t happen again."

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The Swans will be without Ryan Bennett against the Robins due to suspension, although they will welcome Ryan Manning back to the squad after he completed a one-game ban.

The defensive duo of Kyle Naughton and Nathaneal Ogbeta will both miss Sunday's contest.

"Naughts, we were hoping to get back towards the end of this week but it’s probably going to be early next week," he added.

"Nathaneal is a similar time frame. Ryan is suspended so it’s one less player for us.

"Ryan Manning is back so that makes up. We did miss Ryan on Tuesday with how well he takes the ball and how much courage he shows. He’s an important player for us.

"You have to give other guys opportunities and it’s up to them to take opportunities. Ryan Bennett being out means there’ll be another opportunity for someone else to come in."

Kick-off against Nigel Pearson's men is at 1pm on Sunday.

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