yes, like no-one else since Sutton.

The other players you mentioned were all stars of the youth/reserves and were almost guaranteed to play in the first team.

Sutton & Martin were virtual unknowns who got their chance and then made an immediate impact.

Martin has only scored 5 Reserve goals, which hardly marks him out as ready for the step-up.

Note also that both Sutton & Martin were over 18 when they reached the first XI - Bellamy made his debut at 16.

We can never put the clock back, but if earnie had remained fit I don't think Martin would have started the last 7 games.

Posted By: jayson blair, Mar 14, 13:37:19