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Last Updated: Wednesday, 9 June, 2004, 14:51 GMT 15:51 UK
Nigeria worry over Martins
By Oluwashina Okeleji
BBC Sport, Lagos

Nigeria's Obafemi Martins in action
Nigeria's Obafemi Martins is a doubt for their next World Cup qualifier

Nigeria striker Obafemi Martins is a major doubt for the Super Eagles' next World Cup qualifier against Angola on 20 June.

Martins, who scored both goals on his home debut against Rwanda on Saturday, twisted knee ligaments during the Group Four qualifier in Abuja.

Although the injury is not as serious as was originally thought, Martins said he might not be fit in time to travel to the Angolan capital Luanda.

"I hope I can be fit enough to be part of the trip but there is a real doubt," he told BBC Sport.

"I just feel pain all over but I really want to play.

"I want my fans in Nigeria to know that I really want to play in every game but the injury is becoming unbearable.

"I am really sad to say that it will take a miracle to be part of the team."

Martins went on to say that officials from his Italian club Inter Milan are worried about his injury and want him to return for comprehensive treatment.

"Inter officials are asking me to return to Italy so they can take proper care of the injury.

"They feel I will only get worse by staying in Nigeria or trying to force myself to play," he concluded.

Martins, who declined to play for Nigeria at the Cup of Nations in Tunisia, scored on his international debut against the Republic of Ireland on 29 May.





Links to more African stories


 

SEE ALSO
Group Four results
06 Jun 04  |  African
Nigeria recall Okocha
08 Jun 04  |  African
Martins injured in home debut
06 Jun 04  |  African
Martins delighted with debut
30 May 04  |  African


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