Martinez Throws Down Challenge To Swansea Squad

Roberto Martinez has said now is the time for Swansea City's squad players to prove they have what it takes at Championship level.

Martinez lost hugely influential midfielder Ferrie Bodde with a season ending knee injury in Friday night's 3-2 home defeat to Birmingham.

And El Gaffer admits it will be tough without Bodde, but says it is time for sqaud players to step up to the plate.

Speaking to the Evening Post, Martinez said:

'It is extremely disappointing because he (Bodde) can be extremely proud of what he has achieved in his first season at this level and I think he's shown what a quality footballer he is,' said Martinez.

'But I have no doubt he will come back from this stronger, more mature and ready for a new challenge. He can use the time to improve in other areas and we will see a better player on his return.

'Ferrie is devastated and it is not good news for us with the form he is in. Ferrie is an important player for us and we rely on his distribution with the way we play.

'We will miss him, but we have talked enough about the squad and players who have been waiting for their opportunity — and now they must show they are ready.'

Martinez has long spoken about the depth of his squad and the injury to his most important player will be a massive test of it.

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