Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Martins: No Keegan problem

18 Mar 2008 - 15:00:34

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Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins claims he has no problem with Kevin Keegan despite his angry reaction to being substituted against Birmingham City.

The Nigeria striker was visibly unhappy with Keegan's decision to replace him towards the end of Monday night's 1-1 draw at St Andrew's with the Magpies on the front foot and looking for a winner.

Martins was spoken to by Keegan as he attempted to storm past the waiting manager, but the former Internazionale frontman claims there is no issue between the pair.

"There are no problems. We have quality players and if we continue that sort of play, we will do even better," he told the Evening Chronicle.

"All I am trying to do is help get this club away from the relegation zone. The fans or the club don't need that so that is all I am concerned about."

Meanwhile, Martins claims he is happy with the attacking philosophy Keegan has adopted on his return to St James' Park.

"The coach plays an attacking game and that suits my game a lot," he added.

"I am satisfied with that and by the way we played going forward as a team."