Martins - "We Have Lift Off!"

Last updated : 19 September 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor


Obafemi Martins scored his first goal in English football at the weekend and Glenn Roeder is convinced that was the moment that will change his luck.

The 21-year-old is walking in Alan Shearer's boots, and no matter if he likes it or not, he will be judged on the goals he scores.

Roeder: "He is a young player with a massive responsibility leading Newcastle's line. He has come from a world-class club in Inter Milan but he wasn't considered the first striker week in, week out there.

"There he would often come on and score goals from the bench so the pressure wasn't as great as it is now. He was getting a little bit frustrated, as young players do, that he hadn't opened his account. He had one or two chances before he scored that he snatched at.

"But in training, trust me, he is scoring sensational goals and you will see some fantastic goals this current season from Obafemi. He made his goal look very easy by drawing the keeper and slotting home and the boys are delighted for him."