Newcastle United Football Club News

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

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

Martins happy to stay

20 Jun 2007 - 16:15:50

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Nigeria international Obafemi Martins insists he has no intention of leaving Newcastle United this summer, despite going missing before the Magpies' final day of the season draw at Watford.

Martins is currently in Nigeria attempting to help his country qualify for next year's African Cup of Nations finals, but says he is more than happy to remain on Tyneside.

He said: "I signed a contract with Newcastle and I am happy at the club and the way the fans supported me even when I wasn't scoring was great.

"If I am fully-fit there is no way I will back out from playing any game for Newcastle.

"But it wouldn't be right for me to wear the shirt and play when I know that I will not be giving my best. That will be like cheating the fans.

"Every time I play I want to give my best and it upsets me when people suggest that I tried to dodge a game by faking injury. I have never done that and I will never do that."

Former Internazionale star Martins scored 17 goals in 46 appearances for the Magpies last term - his first season in England.