The turmoil surrounding Newcastle United following the departure of Kevin Keegan, has sparked fears about a player exodus at St James' Park and as such, the Premiership club’s rivals could be gearing up to snap up the stars like Obafemi Martins.

The Nigerian striker has been linked with Arsenal in the past, but had maintained that he was happy with life at the Tyneside club. However, with a few clubs including Tottenham and Manchester City now likely to make a foray into the transfer market in January, the 23-year-old former Inter man could be in the spotlight again.

Martins also feels that there may be other players also fearing about their careers with the Magpies, who are still manager-less while under-fire owner Mike Ashley is trying to sell the club.

"Yes I have been thinking deep about my own career. But I will never let that affect my game because I have to give my all," Martins told The Sun.

"Everyone is entitled to their own decision and career. Events like this will only trigger speculation.

"If the players are determined to succeed they will not allow what just happened to bother them. But nothing will surprise me in the coming months."