Martyn denies bust-up claims

Last updated : 25 July 2002 By Brian Cartlidge
The reports claimed that Martyn had been replaced as the club's first choice goalkeeper by Paul Robinson following an argument over his request to miss the club's pre-season tour to Australia and the Far East.

Martyn has denied rumours of a rift. "I am surprised at reports that I have been told that I will not be number one goalkeeper at Leeds United next season. I have been told no such thing," he said in a statement released through his agent. "My reasons for missing the pre-season tour are in the interests of Leeds United.

"I told Terry Venables that, after playing in all of the Leeds games last season and then joining England for the World Cup, my body would be in better condition if I stayed behind and trained here in England - to which he was understanding.

"In six years at Leeds I have missed only a handful of training sessions and first-team games.

"My commitment to the club has not been questioned, and I expect to be number one goalkeeper when the season starts."