Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins has moved to distance himself from criticism of the club's medical staff attributed to one of his representatives, who suggested a hernia injury had not been picked up quickly enough.

The £10million man said: "I wish to make it perfectly clear that I have never criticised the medical team at Newcastle United, who all do an excellent job for the club.

"All I am concentrating on is getting fit again as soon as possible so I can be back playing and helping the team."