Some Derby County supporters have taken to Twitter to praise Chris Martin’s involvement during his side’s slender 1-0 win over Championship opponents Wigan Athletic.
Derby edged the Latics thanks to a last-minute strike from Graeme Shinnie.
In truth, it was a wretched game of football often devoid of quality. However, Shinnie’s stunning strike was worthy enough to win any game and it came at the best time possible.
Martin was instrumental in the goal, providing a deft layoff reminiscent of his best days at Pride Park. Some Derby fans feel that sort of involvement makes him so important.
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Martin has had to work hard to get back into the Derby team.
After topping the scoring charts for three straight seasons, he was unfairly cast aside in 2016-17 by Nigel Pearson and then struggled to get back in.
Subsequent managers Gary Rowett and Frank Lampard didn’t fancy him. And Martin’s form during loan spells at Reading and Hull City left a lot to be desired.
But under Phillip Cocu, he has proven his worth. Goals against Leeds United, Birmingham City and Barnsley means he has the best goals-per-game ratio at the club.
Martin, however, is far more than just goals. He is technically very good with the ball at his feet, providing deft flicks and one-touch passing which brings teammates into play.
Cocu has a difficult job getting Martyn Waghorn, Jack Marriott and Martin into the same starting XI. But on current form, the latter should be the number one choice.
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