Obafemi Martins celebrates his first goal in Newcastle colours

Newcastle's Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins has admitted he was scared by the challenge of trying to fill Alan Shearer's boots.

The 22-year-old arrived at St James' Park last year in a US$20m move from Inter Milan to inherit Shearer's famous number nine shirt.

With Michael Owen facing 10 months on the sidelines, he knew he would have to provide the bulk of the goals for his new club.

Owen and Shola Ameobi, who has been out for six months after hip surgery, are now both back in harness.

Although it has been a tough season for the Magpies, the 17 he has contributed so far represent a creditable return and he is hopeful of adding to his tally having grown into his role.

He said: "I have been happy with my first season, but it was never going to be easy.

"Wearing the Newcastle number nine shirt is difficult because everyone knows the history behind it.

"They had Alan Shearer before I came here, and he is a legend.

"When I first arrived, I was scared about it because he is such a big name, but now I feel great and want to finish the season on a high."

Martins has this week been linked with a US$26m move to Valencia as they prepare for the possible departure of David Villa to Champions League finalists Liverpool.

However, the Newcastle striker insists he is happy where he is and is hoping to score more goals.

He said: "It has been a good first year in English football and the players and the coaches have helped me a lot.

"I am happy to stay here and looking forward to next season."

If Martins is looking forward to the future on Tyneside, Spanish misfit Albert Luque seems certain to end his miserable two years in England by completing a move to PSV Eindhoven.