Graeme Swann defends Nick Compton form

England spinner Graeme Swann has defended the form of batsman Nick Compton as the opener continues to struggle in the Test series against New Zealand.

The Somerset man was out for just seven in the second innings at Headingley as he was dismissed by Kane Williamson after making just a single in the first innings.

Swann told reporters: "He's had a fairly low-scoring game and not quite hit the standards he expects from himself but we all know what a magnificent player he is.

"We are in a performance-judged line of work but I think it is a bit unfair because he showed his mettle and class in New Zealand."

England ended day three of the second Test 116-1 in their second innings, 296 runs ahead of the Black Caps.