Martins sorry over sub strop

Martins: Apologetic

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Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins has apologised for his strop following his substitution against Middlesbrough.

Martins reacted angrily to be subbed by Joe Kinnear for Mark Viduka in the second half of the goalless draw at The Riverside.

The Nigerian marched straight to the visiting dressing room without shaking manager Kinnear's hand.

Martins has apologised to Kinnear and admits he was wrong to react the way he did.

"I was absolutely gutted at being hauled off, and it was all down to sheer disappointment," Martins told the Evening Chronicle.

"Like any other player, I am always most disappointed when I am substituted.

"But I am sorry if what I did was a problem and, in hindsight, perhaps it was wrong for me to go into the dressing room and not go on the bench.

"I was feeling good and felt as though I could score and I still do not know or understand why I was called off.

"I don't suppose it was a surprise that Mark Viduka was brought on, especially as there were no goals.

"But I was hoping I would get the chance to play alongside him and Michael Owen and not be the one to make way for him.

"When the three of us were used together as a three-pronged attack last season we had a fair amount of success."