Toshack Heaps Praise On Martinez

Wales boss John Toshack has sung the praises of Swansea gaffer Roberto Martinez for his impact since taking charge at the Liberty Stadium.

Martinez took over in April 2007, and has already been linked to Premiership jobs at Newcastle and Wigan after leading the Swans to the League One title in impressive style.

And Toshack admits he is pleasantly surprised by the way the Spaniard's team have adapted to life in the Championship.

Toshack told BBC Sport:

'He's very bright, I like Roberto a lot.'

'I can see what he's trying to do. His way of playing is different to the way any other side play.'

'Championship sides don't know how to combat it until they're on the bus on the way home normally.

'Outside the Premier League, he is a serious candidate for manager of the year, for the calendar year.'

'What he's done for Swansea is terrific in his first year. I didn't expect them to make the impression they have done. [Ferrie] Bodde's injury is a big loss - he's irreplaceable to the way they play.'

'It'll be interesting to see how that affects them and to see whether the pressure of the league will catch up with some of the players.'

Toshack also added that he believes Cardiff's more experienced squad is the reason why they will finish ahead of Swansea this season.

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