SWANSEA City boss Roberto Martinez insists Jason Scotland is on his way to top form.
More significantly, perhaps, Scotland looks to be lacking the confidence he gained after Swansea fans belatedly united behind him towards the back-end of last season.
The former St Johnstone frontman has struggled to make an impression since his man-of-the-match showing at Plymouth last month.
But Martinez is confident Scotland will soon be firing on all cylinders.
"The work Jason put in against Derby probably wasn't as shiny for the fans as it could have been," said the Spaniard.
"Sometimes the role he plays is difficult to appreciate, but he worked extremely hard and I know that in terms of sharpness he will get there very soon.
"You have to remember Jason has just come off the back of what was a disappointing international break.
"He had to travel a lot of hours, he had 10 days of very low intensity training and he didn't play any games.
"But I was delighted with his role against Derby and I know he will keep growing."
Martinez was full of praise for his whole team in the wake of their 1-1 draw with Derby, despite the fact that Swansea again failed to make their dominance count.
"We had a few chances, although probably not as clear cut as our play deserved," he added.
"But at this stage of the season I am still looking at performances more than results, and I was very happy with the performance.
"I am looking at the players dominating the game, adapting to the Championship and being themselves."