Russell Martin explains Man City loanee half-time substitution as boss reveals what he said in Swansea City dressing room

Russell Martin told his Swansea City players about their impressive record when returning from international breaks after the 0-0 draw with Birmingham City.

The Swans turned in an uninspiring display against the Blues and were fortunate not to concede, with Tahith Chong, Maxime Colin, Scott Hogan and Juninho Bacuna among those to miss chances for the visitors.

But having held on to claim a point and a clean sheet against Lee Bowyer's men, Martin's men have a two-week break before returning to action against rivals Cardiff City on Saturday, April 2. Swansea are yet to lose either of their first two matches after an international break this season, and Martin is confident the fortnight without fixtures will serve his side well once again.

"I said it to the players. Whenever we've had a bit of time to work, it's always been reflected in the performance and we have to make sure that's the same again now," he said.

"We have a few guys going away which is great for them but the rest, there's a balance between recovery, and then it's time to work. Any chance we've had to work this season, we've tried to maximise every bit of time and it'll be the same again now."

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Swansea are expected to have Jamie Paterson and Flynn Downes available for the contest with the Bluebirds.

Finley Burns was withdrawn at half-time during the stalemate with Birmingham City. And speaking in his post-match press conference, Martin confirmed the Manchester City loanee did not sustain an injury.

"Fin's fine. He's an 18-year-old boy living away from home on his own for the first time. He's adapting, it's just taking time. He'll