The return of the new Joel Piroe, maybe as good as the old one?

Joel Piroe returns for the Swans at Preston tonight after sitting out three games due to suspension following the red card at Burnley.

Russell Martin admits that the striker is in the best shape he has seen with the player fired up ahead of his return to action this evening against Preston North End.

Piroe has struggled somewhat with four goals this season compared to the 24 and numerous assists he provided last season although perhaps the enforced break will bring back a refreshed Dutchman.

Martin aaid: “He’s got a bit of a spark back. With Joel, it’s been relentless for him, coming over and playing a whole season in the Championship and to carry on playing every game this season.

“He’s been so frustrated with himself, he’s got such high standards because he judges himself on goals, but he brings us so much more than that. We’re trying to remind him of that.

“I think he’ll ready and benefit from this break. He had a couple of days of down time after the red card.

“He was so disappointed with himself and apologised to his team-mates. But I do think we’ll get a big reaction from him when he comes back.

“He’s in probably the best shape I’ve seen him, physically. We did some running the other day and I’ve never seen him run like that.

“He’s in a brilliant place and I think he’ll come back with a real bang.”