STEVE IS STILL SMARTIN’ OVER LOSING MARTIN
STEVE McCLAREN admits he thought Derby’s decision to loan Chris Martin to Fulham was odd – but is relieved he won’t have to face the striker today.
McClaren’s predecessor Nigel Pearson controversially allowed Martin to join the Cottagers on a season-long loan.
The Scotland striker, 28, has scored six goals in his last 10 games for the west London side and that has come as no surprise to McClaren, under whom Martin was a key player for Rams.
“He doesn’t play against us, thank goodness,” said the County boss, whose side are fifth after SEVEN straight wins.
“I have the highest regard for Chris. He’s doing a good job for Fulham and they are very pleased with him.” Asked if he thought letting Martin go was strange, McClaren said: “I thought it at the time but I wasn’t the manager.”
Martin (above) can only return to the Rams next month if both clubs and the player are in agreement. The County boss added: “Unless Fulham have had enough of him or he has had enough of Fulham, I really don’t know how it is possible.”
McClaren (top) has urged his players to maintain their momentum – but admits their run cannot last forever.
“To win seven in a row is some going,” he added. “We keep saying to the players that it’s a brilliant feat but we know that we will fall off at some stage.”