Martins fitness battle

Last updated : 28 May 2007 By Paul Smith

Appearances: 33

Goals: 5

Notts boss Steve Thompson who released Martin
Season highlight:
Martin came into the starting eleven on the back of a superb performance at Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup in which he netted a memorable Notts winner.

That earnt him an extended run in the first team as a central midfielder and he didn't disappoint hitting some neat goals and looking solid in the tackle and assured on the ball.

His confidence saw him strike at every oppurtunity and his displays excited the fans.

Season lowlight: Being released at the end would have been a huge blow for the former Derby County trainee.

After falling out of favour the writing may have been on the wall, but his early season brilliance should have rewarded Martin with more chances than he was given.

Notts boss Steve Thompson wasn't prepared to give him many and as a result he was often restricted to substitute outings and this did him little favours in securing a new contract.

He is now without a club and this has to be his biggest disappointment of the campaign.

Best game: Martin was in fine form as Notts dominated lowly Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane in September.

A 3-2 win was ruined only by Stanley's two late, late goals after a highly polished performance from the Magpies had them cruising to three points.

They still got them despite it being much too close at the end, and it was Martin who picked up most of the plaudits that day.

Scoring twice, one a wicked free-kick, Martin could have had several more such was his ability to burst into the box from deep and outshine his opponents.

Martins set-pieces were also brilliant setting chances up left right and centre including for Notts' opener as Mike Edwards pounced.

The Mad verdict: As big Martin fans NCM were disappointed to see Thompson release him, even though it was always apparent that it would happen.

Martin celebrates vital strike against Bury

Martin helped keep the club from the Conference with a vital strike against Bury last season and after finally being given a break under Thompson, looked in good form at the start of this.

Scoring goals, dominating from midfield and performing with the amount of effort required for a good attacking midfielder.

His pace was questioned, as was his fitness and these vital attributes eventually cost the youngster.

Though he beefed himself up considerably under Thompson's orders, Martin couldn't quite get his match fitness to the required standard as Thompson kept him - undeservedly - on the periphery.

With little reserve games his match fitness was bound to suffer and Martin found himself heading for the Meadow Lane exit.

He may return after Thompson promised him a trial should he fail to get another club, but his ability makes that unlikely.

NCM believe it will be Notts' loss considering his potential.

Rating: 6/10