NUFC transfer news from the January 6 papers

Jan 6 2009 By Matt McKenzie

Obefemi Martins is likely to be out until mid-February after surgery on a groin problem. The Times says his absence is likely to remove any temptation that Joe Kinnear has of selling Michael Owen.

The Sun says NUFC could lose Alan Smith in a loan deal to Everton. The Toffees need to sort a striker crisis with Louis Saha injured and Yakubu out for the season.

The paper adds that Charles N’Zogbia will be fit for Saturday’s home clash against Ham after hobbling off at Hull with a dead leg.