A former Latics player, the midfielder spent six years as a player at the JJB Stadium, after moving from Real Zaragoza in 1995. He joined fellow countryman Jesús Seba and Isidro Díaz, becoming known as one of the 'three amigos'.

The midfielder had short spells with Motherwell and Walsall, before spending three years with Swansea between 2003 and 2006. A short spell at Chester City followed, but it was February 2007 when Martinez was lured back to the Liberty Stadium, this time as manager of the then League One club.

Regarded as a gentleman of the game equipped with excellent media skills, the 35-year-old led Swansea to promotion from the Championship in the 2007/08 season, his first full campaign at the club. He picked up the League Managers Association's manager of the year award as he led Swansea to the title.

Last season was more than just an exercise in consolidation. Playing some of the most attractive football in the league, Swansea finished in eighth place, just six points away from a play-off place. They also won plaudits for their 2-0 FA Cup fourth round defeat of holders Portsmouth at Fratton Park, not to mention the 1-1 draw they secured against Barclays Premier League side Fulham in the next round where they again produced some outstanding football, before being knocked out in the replay.

Former manager Steve Bruce is admired throughout the land for his ability to spot talent at a low price. He attracted the likes of Amr Zaki, Maynor Figueroa and Wilson Palacios to the JJB, and in the case of the latter, sold him to Tottenham Hotspur for £12m, thus earning the club a huge profit on the player. Chairman Dave Whelan will hope that Martinez has that same happy knack. Indeed, the Catalonia-born manager has a decent track record himself, attracting the likes of Angel Rangel, Ferrie Bodde, Jason Scotland and loanee Jordi Gomez to the Liberty Stadium.