Martins returns to CSL side, Shanghai Shenhua

Former Super Eagles speedster, Obafemi Martins has rejoined Chinese Super League side, Shanghai Shenhua, the Chinese FA Cup winners said on Wednesday (July 15), more than two years since his last competitive match.

The 35-year-old former Inter Milan and Newcastle United attacker was without a club last year as he battled a hamstring injury.

His last game was in April 2018 for Shenhua, for whom he scored 32 goals in 59 matches during his previous spell.

Shenhua did not say how long Martins’ new contract is for but he helps replace compatriot, Odion Ighalo, who is on loan at Premier League side, Manchester United.

Martins, who turns 36 in October, hit 18 goals in 42 appearances for Nigeria before retiring from national duty.

Shenhua will open the delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season on Saturday, July 25 against Fabio Cannavaro’s reigning champions Guangzhou Evergrande.

The CSL is kicking off five months late because of the global outbreak of flu-like coronavirus.