“He’s done well with us”: Former Derby County striker impresses Bristol Rovers boss

Former Derby County star striker Chris Martin has been training with League One rivals Bristol Rovers as they search for another striker.

Martin, 34, was made a free agent after he was released by Queen’s Park Rangers in the summer after a spell with Bristol City following his departure from Pride Park.

The Scotsman has been training with Bristol Rovers, but manager Joey Barton has yet to decide on whether to sign the forward.

Rovers had a strong push to move for Peterborough United star striker Johnson Clarke-Harris which fell through on transfer deadline day and so are still looking for another forward.

Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, Joey Barton said: “Training with you and getting a deal done there is a little bit of distance between that. He’s been good, joined in and done well with us, we’re trying to sort that out and we’ll see what happens next week.”

Derby fans will have fond memories of Martin who spent seven years at Pride Park scoring 65 goals in 185 appearances including a 20 goal season in the 2013/14 season.

Barton added: “He’s been a good lad, and we’ve only got one striker at the minute with John (Marquis). I know Azza can do it but its just that focal point.

“Not getting Clarke-Harris left us a little bit short there, we’ll see what next week unfolds.”

Martin has 168 career goals in 629 club football games. He also has 17 caps for the Scottish national team scoring three goals.