'Slowly but surely' Obafemi edging back into Swansea squad

Michael Obafemi is in line to return to the Swansea squad having missed his club's last game for "not being in the right frame of mind".

That was the opinion of the Swans manager Russell Martin who omitted the Ireland striker from his matchday squad for the 3 September league win over QPR.

Martin said that he believed the player was affected as a result of the transfer deadline day "turbulence" where Obafemi was rumoured to be moving to Burnley.

However, the last-minute transfer did not materialise and subsequently Obafemi now finds himself down the pecking order following his side’s victory, with the manager stating that he wanted the player to show him that he was ready and worthy of a return to the squad.

"Michael will be back in the squad as soon as he’s ready to be back in the squad," said Martin. "That’s where we’re at. It is what it is. Obviously, he had the turbulent few days during the transfer window.

"After that, it’s down to him to show us he’s in the right place to contribute to the group. As soon as he is, he’ll be back in and ready to go."

Martin said that there had been no problem with Obafemi’s attitude on the training pitch and felt that it was non-footballing matters that may have caused his perceived drop in focus at the Welsh club.

The Jacks take on league leaders Sheffield United on Tuesday, and while Martin said his mind was not yet made up on the player’s inclusion, he hinted at a return to the squad.

"Michael has to compete with those guys, [who beat QPR] and give us a decision to make for the squad ahead of tomorrow," said Martin.

"I would say he is getting there, slowly but surely. We’re in a better place than we were a week ago and that’s all we can ask.

"I don’t think he is unhappy that he is still