Martins - No Disciplinary Action!

Last updated : 01 June 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
England lost Michael Owen to the sniffles, Ireland lost Damien Duff to a nose problem, and Obafemi Martins missed Sunday's 2010 World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa because ... he went to a wedding.

But Nigeria coach Shaibu Amodu has confirmed he will not take disciplinary action against Martins.

The Newcastle striker has come under severe criticism from fans and local media after he missed Tuesday's friendly against Austria due to an injury but then showed up at a wedding ceremony in Lagos instead.

Amodu: "There won't be any action against Obafemi Martins yet.

"He called to be excused citing an injury and we have to respect the fact that he made it known to us, I cannot discipline a player I have not seen.

"Whenever he makes himself available, we will assess the situation and talk one-on-one, as this is no time to discipline any player.

"I understand the disappointment expressed by the media and fans, but is too soon to jump into conclusions."