Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins has revealed the immense pressure he felt after inheriting Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer’s iconic No. 9 jersey during his time at St James’ Park. In an emotional interview, the 40-year-old striker reflected on the weight of expectations following his £10m transfer from Inter Milan in 2006.
“It wasn’t easy at all playing as the No. 9. I took Shearer’s No. 9 shirt, so the pressure alone is high. They wanted me to be the next Shearer, to score more goals. But I did my part and I moved on. You are the one wearing the jersey, the shirt doesn’t wear you,” Martins said. The Nigerian forward scored 35 goals in 104 appearances across all competitions during his three-year stint with the Tyneside club.
Martins also faced the challenge of leading Newcastle’s attack following Michael Owen’s ACL injury at the 2006 World Cup, adding to the pressure on his shoulders when he arrived in England. “Leaving Inter Milan to go to Newcastle United, I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task and I remember my first game I got injured,” he stated. “Back then, as a striker, if you didn’t score in two or three games, you already start feeling sad.”
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. “Newcastle, first of all, they have the best fans ever, out of all the teams that I played for in the world,” he said. “Out of those who I played for, Newcastle have the best fans. (They get) 52,000 fans are always there at the stadium supporting. Win or lose, they’re there.”
Martins congratulated the club on their Carabao Cup win, saying, “I’m very happy for them that they won. They didn’t win for 70 years. It’s a great honour for the new owners, the coach of course and the players. Seeing these players, you can tell they wanted to win. Congratulations to them.” Martins left Newcastle in 2009, but he is still remembered fondly by the Toon Army for memorable moments, including his spectacular strike from outside the box in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham at St. James’ Park.