Roberto Martinez hails his returning players despite Tuesday defeat

Both Way and MacDonald returned to the starting line-up after lengthy absences from the first team and the manager believes that it can only benefit his squad in the long run as it increases competition for places.

Speaking via the club's official web-site, Roberto said "There were some very encouraging individual performances

"I'm delighted that Darren got 90 minutes under his belt. He deserves it because he works so hard and he really wants to be a success at this club.

"And Shaun was a joy to watch at times in the game. He is getting stronger and stronger and he will get better.

"I played with Darren and Shaun so they are no strangers to me," Martinez added. "I was pleased with the attitude and the talent they showed on Tuesday night.

"I believe Darren's problems are completely behind him now and hopefully we have got rid of the negative cloud that has followed him since he joined the Swans.

"He has been through hell, but he's turned the corner and I hope now that we'll see him enjoying his football.

"Shaun's had too many niggling injuries and things have been stop-start for him," Martinez went on. "But he has been training regularly for a while now and his body looks ready for the demands of professional football.

"We saw that on Tuesday night, and now his football will decide how many more games he plays."

Photo: Action Images

Colchester United Polls