Martinez annoyed with fixture on deadline day

01 February 2012 12:47
Roberto Martinez has voiced his frustration at being forced to play a Premier League fixture on transfer deadline day.

The Latics manager was particularly critical as striker Hugo Rodallega was at the centre of transfer speculation surrounding opponents Tottenham.

Speaking about the rumoured interest from Spurs in the striker, Martinez said: "It becomes a bit of a circus."

"One of my players (Rodallega) was in the middle of that speculation and it's not the right way to approach one of the most important games for this football club.

"I don't think it's the right thing. You want to make it a really special moment of the season and there's nothing bigger than a football game. It's just ridiculous. It affects human beings.

"Hugo had a little bit of a soft tissue problem...but it was a big day of speculation and that should never be bigger than the celebration of the game, which is playing football."

Rodallega did not play in the game as the Latics were defeated 3-1.

Source: FOOTYMAD