Newcastle, Premier League
Football in brief: Martins in a strop as Arsenal interest intensifies
Martins unhappy with Allardyce treatment Despite his decision to commit his future to Newcastle, Nigeria’s Obafemi Martins is unsettled at St James’ Park. Martins, who has been substituted in each of the team’s last three games, is unhappy with Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce’s treatment of him. The striker refused to shake his manager’s hand when he was taken [...]
Martins unhappy with Allardyce treatment
Despite his decision to commit his future to Newcastle, Nigeria’s Obafemi Martins is unsettled at St James’ Park.
Martins, who has been substituted in each of the team’s last three games, is unhappy with Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce’s treatment of him.
The striker refused to shake his manager’s hand when he was taken off during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Middlesbrough; instead, he walked straight down the tunnel and was first on the team bus.
However, despite admitting he is flattered to be linked with Arsenal, Martins has pledged his future to his current employers. He reportedly has a £13million buy-out clause and has been linked with the Gunners as well as Manchester United during the summer.
“I am ready to fight for a place. You must be doing something nice to be linked with a club like Arsenal. If it’s true, I must say it was a good thing to have interested a club like Arsenal. But I have a club, which I am happy about. I am committed to the Newcastle cause. I am employed by Newcastle and I owe them my dedication and that is it,” the pacy striker said.
Hull woos Okocha back to England
Former Nigeria and Bolton captain Jay-Jay Okocha may return to English football, with Championship side Hull opening preliminary discussions with the maverick midfielder.
Hull boss Phil Brown reaffirmed the club’s necessity to bring in a midfielder of an attacking bent, and it now looks like Okocha will fit the bill. Hull have made no secret of their desire to bring in a big name, having earlier in the summer failed in a bid to lure Brazilian Juninho to the club.
Okocha enjoyed a hugely success spell in England with Bolton earlier in his career and is now available, as a free agent, having spent a year in Qatar.
Brown is refusing to get carried away though, as there is interest from several other English clubs in the Nigerian’s services.
“I had a tentative chat with Jay-Jay just because he’s available and is a free agent. He’s had similar chats with five or six clubs in England who are interested in him. It’s not a case of anything falling flat or not coming off. I’m just waiting on a phone call but I admit I’m not holding out any hope,” Brown said.
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hails for jay jay okocha the master,you are the4 africa greatest ever baller