Newcastle favourite Obafemi Martins has been in exceptional form in the Chinese Super League.
Newcastle fan favourite Obafemi Martins has been scoring goals for fun in the Chinese Super League with Shanghai Shunhua, but it could all be about to end.
The 33-year-old has scored an impressive eight goals for the Chinese giants, as well as adding four assists during 16 league and cup outings in the same team that boasts the likes of Carlos Tevez, Demba Ba and Fredy Guarin.
Shanghai sit in a lowly 11th place in the Super League table, but without Martins’ goals they would be within touching distance of the relegation zone.
The 41-time Nigeria international left St. James’ Park eight years ago to join German Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, and has since globetrotted around the world, joining Rubin Kazan in Russia, Levante in Spain and Seattle Sounders in USA.
Now, the former Inter Milan striker’s future in China is in doubt despite his red-hot form, with his Shanghai Shenhua contract set to end on December 31.
Rafa Benitez is likely to be on the lookout for a new striker in the January transfer window, as his Toon side have managed just 10 Premier League goals in 11 top-tier outings.
Martins is still considered widely popular on the north east, after scoring 34 goals in 104 league and cup appearances, including one of the most powerful ever Premier League goals scored with an 84mph rocket against Tottenham in January 2007.
With Martins proving he still knows where the goal is and current Toon owner Mike Ashley proving to be stingy with the Newcastle coffers, could a Tyneside return come to fruition for Martins as he looks set to become a free agent?
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