'I'm open to being surprised' — Russell Martin sends summer warning to Swansea City players as star continues to set benchmark

Russell Martin admits he already has a rough idea on which players will be a part of his plans next season, and has challenged those facing an exit to prove him wrong over the coming weeks.

Despite impressive wins over Blackburn Rovers and Bristol City, recent heavy defeats on the road have taken the gloss off any progress made under the former MK Dons boss.

The performances at Sheffield United and Stoke City have been a particular cause for concern, but Martin has once again called for patience as he attempts to really make his mark on this Swans side.

“It’s about time, we had very little time when we came in," he said. "If we had full pre-season there might have been more opportunities and we do have a small squad, which has hurt us at times.

“But I believe there will be more flexibility as we get towards the end of the season, and certainly after a pre-season before next season.”

The summer is already looking like a pivotal period in Martin's reign, and he admits a summer overhaul at the Swansea.com Stadium is likely at the end of the current campaign.

A number of players could well find themselves at risk of being moved on as a result, although Martin insists he hasn't closed the book on anyone just yet.

However, he admits he already has a good idea on what he wants his squad to look like next term, and says some players may find the weight of his methods too much to bear.

"With a transfer window six [away], or four months or whatever it is, players are always playing for their futures.

"Whether they're trying to progress or try to salvage something, a contract at their club or trying to get a move.

"Everyone is trying to prove that all the time.

"In terms of here... .I'm really open to being surprised, but I think