Martin hopes Joe Allen will not face long lay-off

Russell Martin hopes Joe Allen’s injury will not keep him sidelined for long after the midfielder was forced off in defeat at Luton.

The 32-year-old was handed the captain’s armband at Kenilworth Road, with club captain Matt Grimes absent through illness.

But he had to leave the fray on the stroke of half-time in Bedfordshire, with Morgan Whittaker taking his place.

The academy product has had a challenging time with injuries this season, but Swans boss Martin hopes the lay-off will not be a long one.

“We hope it is not too bad,” he said.

“It is really frustrating, we lost Matt Grimes before the game and then Joe just before half-time, two of the leaders in our group.

“It is tough for us, but hopefully Joe will not be out for too long and Grimesy will be back for next week at this rate.

“But I am proud of the lads that stepped up. Ben Cabango was a real leader, Nathan Wood was incredible and Joel Latibeaudiere was top. Jay Fulton continued to do what he has done this season and Joel Piroe grew into the game.

“We have a lot to be positive about. Joe is a concern but we hope it is not too bad.”