Planet Swans ArchivesMartinez has come under fire by a small minority who believe that the number of foreign imports this season could disrupt progress rather than help it over the coming months as the Swans prepare for a first Championship season since 1984.
Roberto has already added two Spaniards this summer and looks set to add a third to go with his two – soon to be one? – Dutchmen and the two Soca Warriors who today are on World Cup duty. With reports of an Argentine midfielder to add to that, it is fast becoming a league of nations at the Liberty as Roberto continues to utilise his policy of scouring everywhere for the best talent.
And judging by last season's 10 point margin of League One victory it is hard to argue against his methods and difficult to see why it could become a problem as Roberto has bedded in just about every signing he has made in his 16 months in charge.
Speaking in today's Western Mail, the Swans boss said “People talk about the number of foreigners, but it isn’t a concern here
“Everyone that plays for this club, whatever nationality they are, still has to have the Swansea City mentality.
“That is a big priority for me. Everyone that plays here has to tick all the right boxes. I won’t look at players that don’t.
“They must be hungry for success, understand what it means to represent this club and want to embrace our fans.
“They must have a desire to progress in the same way we do.
“So there are many requirements they have to meet, where they come from isn’t one of them. I don’t care about nationalities, I care about characters and people that are right for this club.
“You only have to look at last year to see how easily players settle at this club,” said Martinez.
“And now I have the likes of Angel Rangel, Guillem Bauza and Andrea Orlandi, who, having gone through it all last year, can make the process much quicker. They know what it takes to be successful here.”
