Former
Nigerian star Obafemi Martins disclosed the enormous pressure he experienced when he took over wearing the legendary No. 9 shirt previously owned by Alan Shearer at Newcastle United, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
During an emotionally charged conversation with Football Fans Tribe, the 40-year-old forward looked back at the immense pressure he faced after joining for £10 million from Inter Milan in 2006. He was expected to take over as the main scorer for Newcastle United, stepping into the shoes of their long-standing top goalscorer.
“It was definitely not an easy task playing as the number nine. I wore Shearer’s old number nine jersey, which came with significant pressure. Everyone expected me to become the next Shearer and score even more goals. However, I fulfilled my role and progressed. Remember, you wear the jersey; the jersey does not define you,” Martins stated.
The Nigerian striker, beloved by fans for his acrobatic goal celebrations, explosive speed, and strong left foot, netted 35 times in 104 matches overall during his three years at the Tyneside club.
Martins was confronted with the task of spearheading Newcastle’s offensive strategy after Michael Owen suffered an ACL tear during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, which only intensified the expectations placed upon him as he made his way to England.
“Moving from Inter Milan to Newcastle United, I realized it wouldn’t be an easy challenge, and I recall getting hurt during my first match,” he said.
Those days, when I was a forward, if I failed to find the back of the net in two or three matches, I would begin feeling down.
Despite the difficulties, Martins still holds Newcastle’s supporters in high regard, becoming visibly emotional while praising them as the best fans he encountered during his career.
“First off, Newcastle has the finest supporters anywhere I’ve played, among all the clubs globally,” he stated in the podcast.
Among all the teams I’ve performed for, Newcastle boasts the finest supporters. There are consistently 52,000 fans present at every match, cheering regardless of whether we win or lose. I’m delighted for them as they finally claimed victory in the Carabao Cup after waiting 70 years. This triumph brings immense honor to both the new ownership and the coaching staff, along with the team members themselves. Observing their determination during each game clearly shows how much winning meant to them. My congratulations go out to everyone involved.
In 2009, Martins departed Newcastle after they were relegated to the Championship. When he transferred to Wolfsburg, the club managed to recover much of his original transfer cost. Despite leaving, he remains a cherished figure among supporters for notable performances such as scoring an impressive long-range goal during a thrilling 3-2 win against Tottenham at St. James’ Park on January 14, 2007.
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