By Steve Mc
February 27 2007

Regular contributor Steve Mc asks why Newcastle Striker Obafemi Martins, has come in for some undeserved criticism from North East Football writer Alan Oliver following our recent disappointing result against Wigan. What is his problem?

There is no doubt that many of us Toon followers were disappointed by our result at Wigan on Sunday. A case of three points being squandered as a consequence of a combination of profligate finishing, inspired goalkeeping and a directionless second half display.

However, it seems that esteemed local journalist Alan Oliver was more upset than even the most ardent of fans. His report in Monday's Chronicle was characterised by such vitriol and hyperbole that he seemed to have a point to prove.

One of the many axes that I have to grind against Mr Oliver is regarding his treatment of Obafemi Martins. Our new striker has, by common consent, settled well into English football. He has notched 14 goals to date, with 20 being an achievable target for his maiden season. He has also been showered with praise for the way in which he has managed to score some of the most spectacular goals of the term so far. If Glenn Roeder is to believed he is regarded by fellow managers as a genuinely top class player.

However, Mr Oliver (he has another less than affectionate name amongst many Newcastle fans), has been on Oba's back since early in the season. There have been claims of a lack of effort, most notably in the fine draw at the Emirates Stadium in November, whilst most supporters have been impressed by the way in which he 'puts himself about'. Misses have also been harped on about whilst the positive contributions made by Martins have been conveniently forgotten about.

This trend reached a new nadir on Monday. Martins' display was described by Oliver as being "terrible". It was asserted that Andy Carroll did more in his first five seconds than our chronologically dubious hero managed in the entirety of the game. So in the interests of balance and objectivity I decided to take in a number of opinions and views on the performance of the diminutive striker.

It seems that not all journalists share Oliver's scornful take on Martins' display.

John Sinnot of the BBC described Martins as Newcastle's most impressive player. He also credited Oba with the clever back heel that led to the penalty and was said to have forced saves from Filan whilst showing great touch and vision throughout. Hardly "terrible" then.

The player ratings in The Sun gave him the equal highest score of any of our players. The Mirror stated that Martins 'tried hard' for Newcastle.

I could go on, but I think you follow the point I'm trying to make.

So Mr Oliver. What exactly is your problem?