mkdons.com lists a number of things you may not know about defender Russell Martin, who has become the Dons first signing of the January transfer window.
Experienced Head
It’s safe to say Russell Martin is a man that’ll bring plenty of experience to the Stadium MK dressing room. Since making his professional debut for Wycombe Wanderers, in 2004, Martin has made over 500 career appearances.
The 33-year-old has featured for the likes of Rangers, Peterborough United and Wycombe – but it was Norwich City where the Central Defender made his mark. Having earned promotion out of League One in 2010, Martin played every single game as Norwich recorded back-to-back promotions to reach the Premier League.
During his time in the top flight, Martin played 125 games, scoring eight goals during that time.
Promotions
Martin arrives at MK1 with a number of promotions to his name. He first experienced the feeling back in 2009, when he played an integral part in Peterborough’s promotion out of League One.
A season later, Martin moved from Peterborough to Norwich City, where he made an immediate impact. The defender helped the Canaries earn promotion into the Championship, before the season after, helping them reach the Premier League.
His list of honours doesn’t stop there though, as, in 2015, Martin was part of the Norwich side that returned to the Premier League at the first time of asking via the Play-Offs. He missed just one game that season, and captained Norwich City at Wembley for their memorable 2-0 win over Middlesbrough.
Scottish International
Martin doesn’t just bring EFL experience – he’s also featured a number of times for the Scottish national team. Despite being born in Brighton - Martin qualifies to play for Scotland through his Dad. After impressed during his time at Carrow Road, he was named in the Scotland Squad for the first time in May 2011 – and would make his debut as a late substitute against Wales.
Since making his debut, Martin has featured 29 times for Scotland, with his most recent cap being earned against Slovenia in May 2017. He’s represented Tartan Army against the likes of France, Italy, Germany and England.
Life away from Football
Back in 2014, Russell Martin became a vegan. He has since become a part-owner of Eripingham House – the largest vegan restaurant in the United Kingdom. Elsewhere, the 33-year-old set up the ‘Russell Martin Foundation’ based in Brighton and Hove Albion. The Charity used the power of football to help changes people’s lives in the city that Martin was born.
