Martins Still Relevant For Nigeria –Siasia

Samson Siasia has assured striker Obafemi Martins that he remains a key member of the Super Eagles squad and will get a recall as soon as he is fully fit.

Martins, 26, has yet to feature for the Super Eagles under Siasia.

The Rubin Kazan forward was included in the squad two games in March, a 2012 African Nations Cup qualifier at home to Ethiopia, and a friendly against Kenya, but failed to make the match day squad for either game because of an injury.

“I called him before their game on Wednesday and assured him that he was still a key member of the squad and will be invited as soon as he is fully fit.

“I also passed my condolences on his brother’s passing and wished him the best for his game.

“I also told him, like I have said to the other players in camp, that anyone who has any issues should come and talk to me about it because there is nothing we cannot resolve by talking. “He was very happy to hear from me and we had a very good frank and open conversation,” Siasia said.

Martins was genuinely pleased about the effort.

“We talked and I spoke my mind. He listened to me and told me we are all learning, and we have to work together. “It was a very good conversation and I am happy he called,” Martins said. Soon after, Obafemi was in the thick of action for Rubin, coming on in the second half to set up a goal as Kazan took a 1-0 lead to cut Olympioc Lyon’s aggregate lead. His team, however, failed to build on it, despite the Nigerian working out two other fine opportunities.

The game finished 1-1 and Rubin wil now drop to the Europa League while Lyon march on to the group phase of the Champions League.