Sports
Sunderland, Newcastle chase Martins’ signature
In from Nifemi Daniel . . .
Latest reports emanating from United State revealed that Sunderland and Newcastle have indicated interest to sign Super Eagles striker, Obafami Martins in their quest to escape relegations in the English Premier League.
Martins who has played in Italy, England, Germany, Spain is one of the hottest strikers in the Major League Soccer. He has scored 40 goals in just 73 starts and his impressive run has also earned his a recall into the national team.
He featured in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers against Swaziland early this month.
Coach Sam Allardyce is reportedly banking on his relationship with Martins to bring his former player to the Stadium of Light. Martins played under Big Sam in the coach’s brief spell at Newcastle.
Read also: Oliseh recalls Martins, invites 22 others for Swaziland
However, reports also suggested that Sounders would reject an outright purchase of their prized asset but can sanction a brief stay during MLS off-season break.
The Magpies are sitting just one place above relegation zone after picking paltry 10 points from 13 matches and Coach Steve McLaren is reportedly interested in bringing the 31-year-old back to the club on a temporary basis in a bid to improve the fortune of the side.
Sunderland are 17 on the EPL table and have also found goal scoring difficult after scoring 14 goals in 11 matches.
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