Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins has opened up about the immense pressure he felt when he inherited the iconic No.9 jersey from Alan Shearer during his time at Newcastle United. In an emotional interview with Football Fans Tribe, the now 40-year-old striker reflected on the challenges of living up to the expectations that came with his £10 million 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,” Martins said. “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.”
The Nigerian forward, known for his acrobatic goal celebrations, blazing pace, and powerful left foot, scored 35 goals in 104 appearances for Newcastle during his three-year spell at St. James’ Park. His time in England was made even more challenging when he was asked to lead the Magpies’ attack following Michael Owen’s ACL injury during the 2006 World Cup.
“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 said. “Back then, as a striker, if you didn’t score in two or three games, you already start feeling sad.”
Despite the pressure, Martins has nothing but fond memories of his time at Newcastle, praising the club’s supporters, who he called the best fans he encountered throughout 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. I’m very happy for them that they won the Carabao Cup. 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 after the club’s relegation to the Championship, with Newcastle recouping most of his transfer fee when he moved to Wolfsburg. However, he remains a fan favourite among the Toon Army, thanks to memorable moments such as his stunning goal from outside the box in a 3-2 victory over Tottenham at St. James’ Park on January 14, 2007.
