Nigel Martyn is one of the most loyal and professional Goalkeepers of recent years, playing at the very highest level of football throughout an illustrious career between the sticks. He wasn’t always a goalkeeper though, Martyn began life as a talented cricketer and a Midfielder throughout his teen years in Football, until he was invited to play in Goal for a local team and took up the opportunity. Nigel went on to begin his professional career after two years in goal for local teams, allegedly being spotted by Bristol Rovers’ tea lady whilst she was on holiday.
After over 100 games as a youngster for Rovers, Nigel became the first British Goalkeeper to cost over £1 million when Crystal Palace signed him in 1989. He went on to play 349 times for Palace, including a League and FA Cup final. He was voted into Palace’s centenary XI recently. Martyn stayed at the club between 89 and 96, before moving on to Leeds.
Martyn was number One at Leeds for Six years, where he got a taste of European cups as Leeds enjoyed a purple patch, including an appearance in the last 4 of the Champions League. Martyn was eventually replaced at the club after a disagreement with manager Terry Venables, with Paul Robinson taking his place in the starting eleven. Since leaving, Martyn has been voted Leeds’ best ever keeper.
Nigel joined Everton for the twilight of his career, and impressed with some of the best keeping of his career in spite of being the wrong side of 35. He retired in 2006 due to an injury, and at the time, David Moyes stated that Martyn was his best signing as a boss.
During an illustrious career, Nigel Martyn also made 23 appearances for England, and was unfortunate not to play more games as he was kept out of contention by the brilliant David Seaman.
Since finishing his career, Nigel has taken up his boyhood sport, cricket, once again, turning out for a local cricket team. He spent a brief spell at Bradford as a Goalkeeping coach and will hopefully return to football in a coaching role in the future.
Nigel Martyn, The North Stand salutes you!
