Liam Walsh has been hailed by Russell Martin as "one of the best" he has worked with after the midfielder starred once again for Swansea City in their 0-0 draw with Coventry City.
While Andy Fisher kept the scores level in goal, it was Walsh who kept things ticking on the field for the Swans against his former club.
This was the midfielder’s fourth start in a row since returning from a ruptured Achilles sustained in pre-season, and his performance consolidated his newfound importance to the side.
Post-match Martin was full of praise for the tenacious midfielder. He said: “He’s playing with so much hunger, so tenacious and aggressive. He’s a beautiful footballer - technically one of the best I have worked with.”
Walsh played just off the frontline of striker Joel Piroe and Liam Cullen and was more than happy to assume the role of the creative output in the team. From the offset, he looked to create chances - a teasing cross in the second minute was crying out for a connection but just evaded everyone in the box.
While he has yet to score for the Swans, a return is surely on the cards in the coming matches, with the ability shown since returning to the side.
His flicks and tricks often came off, a back-heel setting up Ryan Manning to cross for Harry Darling to head just wide. Coventry gave him the space to thrive, getting his head up and always looking to pass between the Sky Blues’ defensive line.
His ability to play in pockets of space was top drawer; his 93 per cent pass success rate was testament to that. A ghosting late run early in the second half gave him a golden opportunity to open the scoring, only to be thwarted by Ben Wilson in the Coventry goal.
As well as the above, he was bettered by only Manning on his team for key passes made in the game.
Out of possession, Walsh was the first line of defence, pressing high in transitional play looking to win any second ball or loose pass from the Sky Blues' defence.
Martin added: "When he came here, we were really excited to have him. It is great to have him fit again, the lads have loved him back on the pitch. He is hugely influential and that has given us an edge. He will be ready to complete 90 minutes soon.”
Ultimately, his wait for full fitness continues and Walsh was replaced in the 66th minute by Morgan Whittaker to a standing ovation by the Swans faithful.
“I am proud of him," the head coach concluded. "The challenge now is to keep that up and keep him fit and take it one game at a time. If he can keep it up he will become a fan favourite very quickly.”
READ MORE:
