Freedman wants to keep Martin at Palace (From Croydon Guardian)

Freedman wants to keep Martin at Palace

5:22pm Thursday 19th January 2012 in Eagles By Neil McSteen

High jump: Chris Martin celebrates his goal against Leeds

Crystal Palace's manager Dougie Freedman hopes to keep hold of on-loan Norwich City striker Chris Martin after a star performance against Leeds United on Saturday.

The 23-year-old put Palace ahead early on in the game before the Eagles were forced to hang on for a point after Sean Scannell's harsh red card just before half-time.

It was Martin who caught the eye though and Freedman has hinted he would like to keep the in-form forward, who is due back at Norwich on February 4, for the rest of the season.

"Chris has bought into the way we think and he’s now bought into the way we play," said the Eagles boss.

"Against Leeds that was his best performance, he scored a fantastic goal, had fantastic work rate and really showed he wants to be part of it.

“There are a few different reasons why we’ve got him for another month and after that month I think it is only fair that I speak to Chris Martin before I reveal what I want to do.

“But with the performances he’s shown, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that I would try to keep him here."

Martin himself admitted he has still adapting to life as an attacking midfielder but is enjoying his time in SE25.

"It’s a position I’ve played before but not on too many occasions," he said, "Obviously, the more playing time I get in there the more I will learn and adapt and fit into the ethos of the club, it’s a lot different to what I’ve been used to at Norwich.

"I wasn’t getting a look in at Norwich and felt it was time to go out and get some games and, luckily, the gaffer here showed faith in me so I’m thankful for that and hopefully I can keep playing as many minutes as possible.

"I’m happy how it’s going at the moment and hopefully we can kick on in the league and keep pushing for promotion."