Roberto Slams Ruling

Roberto Martinez has slammed the ruling that means clubs have to field at least six first team "regulars" in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

Both Roberto and his opposite number made early changes in the tie at the Liberty Stadium turning the rule more farcical in the process and wasting a substitution each.

Speaking after the match, which the Swans won 3-2, Roberto said “It’s a ridiculous rule

"Millwall felt the same way because they changed their ‘keeper after just 20 minutes.

“We play a lot of football in August and the early rounds are perfect for playing your younger players and those in the squad who need minutes or are returning from injury.

“It won’t devalue the competition by playing squad players. At the end of the day, what’s the point in having a squad otherwise?

“The rule is just ridiculous and they should look at it again.”

However, thatw as the only gripe for the manager who was delighted to see his side bounce back from the disappointment of defeat on Saturday with the win “It’s important to win games,” explained Roberto. “But sometimes it’s more than just results.

“The reaction after Saturday’s defeat was fantastic and it proved we have a bunch of winners at Swansea City by getting Doncaster out of our system.

“They displayed tremendous character because it would have been very easy for them to disappear after we went 2-1 behind.

“But the boys kept going for it and I thought the last 30 minutes, especially, they were a credit to the club because they created a lot of chances.”

The game very much turned with the introduction of Darren Pratley and Jason Scotland into the fray on the hour mark, something which was not lost on Roberto

“They certainly changed the game and gave us a bit of what we were lacking

“But you don’t win games with just two players, it’s a squad thing.”

“We all know what Tom is capable of. He’s a Premiership player when he’s free of injuries and on top of his game. He proved today what an exciting player he is.

“Paul (Anderson) is also one of those diamonds who gets better with every minute he plays. He’s not only got fantastic pace, he’s got a tremendous work ethic as well.

“And we still haven’t seen the best of him yet. There’s a lot more to come, I can guarantee you that.”

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