Martins - Kevin who?

Magpies striker did not know who manager was

By James Pearson   Last updated: 29th February 2008

Martins - Kevin who?

Martins: In dark over Keegan

I honestly didn't know anything about him.

Martins on Keegan's return
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Obafemi Martins has admitted when Newcastle United turned to fans' favourite Kevin Keegan he did not know anything about the 'Geordie messiah'.

The Magpies were on the look-out for a new man at the helm in early January after Sam Allardyce was given his marching orders.

Newcastle sensationally turned to former boss Keegan, who had the team challenging for the Premier League title last time around, but Martins did not know what the fanfare was all about.

It was only after speaking with Toon team-mate Geremi that the former Internazionale forward was filled in on Keegan's past exploits.

Important person

"I honestly didn't know anything about him," he told The Sun. "But I quickly learned things and realised what an important person he was.

"It was Geremi who told me all about Kevin Keegan. He rang while we were both out in Ghana - Geremi was with Cameroon - to say that Keegan had been this great player and what a good manager he was for Newcastle.

"When I got back we had to introduce ourselves to each other. I had an ankle injury but Keegan told me he wanted me back and fit to help the team. I told him I wanted that, too."

New deal

Meanwhile, Martins has vowed to sign a fresh five-year Newcastle contract within the next fortnight.

"It should be sorted out in the next two weeks. I want to stay here because I love the fans and they love me," he added.

"I can imagine playing for Newcastle for many, many years. I have settled in well, the area is cool and I'm happy."