Chelsea Back For Martyn

Last updated : 06 August 2003 By Kevin Markey
Just two weeks ago, Martyn had turned down a switch to Stamford Bridge as competition for first-choice Carlo Cudicini after Chelsea's new signing Jurgen Macho picked up a serious knee injury.

With Paul Robinson recently pledging his future to Leeds, manager Peter Reid is now prepared to listen to offers for Martyn.

Chelsea are not offering immediate first-team football but they are willing to increase his £25k-a-week salary and can offer the added incentive of possible involvement in Champions League football.

Now approaching his 37th birthday, Martyn is not keen to let his career drift to a conclusion.

With one year remaining on his United contract he is expected to sign a 2-year deal with The Blues.

Leeds will save £1m on wages by allowing the England international to depart.

Besides Robinson, Leeds have a trio of goalkeepers waiting in the wings, Danny Milosevic, Scott Carson and Shaun Allaway.

Earlier this week Milosevic ‘reconsidered’ a proposed loan move to Crewe Alexandra.

Striker Michael Bridges has been put on standby for tonight's friendly at Hull City.

Bridges is likely to replace the unsettled Mark Viduka.