Chris Martin unfazed by boo-boys after firing Scotland to last-gasp victory
Sunday 26 March 2017 23:29, UK
Scotland match-winner Chris Martin declared himself unconcerned by his critics after scoring a crucial goal to earn his side a late 1-0 victory over Slovenia.
Martin received a negative reaction from sections of the Hampden Park crowd when he was introduced as a substitute in the World Cup qualifying Group F clash, but less than six minutes after coming on he grabbed an 88th-minute winner.
The win gave Scotland's ailing hopes of reaching Russia 2018 a much-needed boost.
"It was amazing, that's all I was focused on," Martin told Sky Sports.
"The manager sent me on to find the goal and luckily I came up with one tonight."
Martin said he did not notice the boos on his introduction, adding: "I was only made aware of it after the game.
"I didn't know there was a tough reception when I came on, I was just focused on trying to help the boys out and trying to get a goal that we deserved during the game.
"I don't really pay too much attention to that, I was just delighted for the lads and for the manager as well. He has shown faith in me throughout the last couple of campaigns so I am delighted to repay the faith and get some reward for the hard work we put in tonight and throughout this campaign so far."
Strachan's job was on the line but victory has taken Scotland two points off second place in Group F.
And Martin did his best to ignore the speculation over his manager's future.
"I don't really pay too much attention to that, obviously that's the media side and you've got to have a focus as a player on your own job and what you have to do," he said.
"But we knew as players it was a must-win and we are just delighted to get over the line. And obviously it makes it sweeter for myself that I was the one to get the winner.
"I think you saw with the celebration, there were a few emotions in there, but mainly just delighted for the lads and the work we put in. I think we deserved to win the game."
"I'm absolutely delighted I had the support of everyone in the dressing room and the manager behind me. I'm not too concerned about that, I need to focus on my job."
Strachan said he was "very proud" of his side's display, singling out both Martin for praise.
"I'm delighted for them all," he said. "I thought they were magnificent, considering the pressure they were under. They really should be proud of themselves."
On the boos for Martin, he said: "He gets a good reception from the players and the staff."
Strachan also pointed out the likes of Kenny Dalglish and Gary McAllister were also booed by Scotland fans during their careers, adding: "How's that for company?"
