New signing Downes ticks all the boxes for Russell Martin

Russell Martin believes new signing Flynn Downes “ticks all the boxes” for Swansea City after completing a deal for the midfielder..

Downes’ signing from Ipswich Town was confirmed on Tuesday, and he will be in contention to make his debut in this weekend’s home meeting with Sheffield United.

Head coach Martin revealed he had previously been keen on a move for 22-year-old Downes during his time in charge of MK Dons.

And he is delighted he will now get the chance to work with the England age-grade international at Swansea.

“We are delighted,” said Martin of Swansea’s fifth summer signing.

“Flynn is a player we had a look at in my previous club and unfortunately we were priced out of the market.

“So, when we came here, we realised the board and owners here were willing to back us on Flynn, which was great.

“We are really grateful for that, and they understand what a good signing he can be, not just in the short term but the long term.

“Flynn is young, hungry, athletic, an excellent player.

“He felt he needed a fresh start, he has played in the league before at a very young age and he ticks all the boxes for us really.

“He really adds to the group in terms of his character and what he will bring on the pitch.”