Martin unfazed by boo-boys as he has last laugh by lifting Scotland to victory
Scotland match-winner Chris Martin declared himself unconcerned by his critics after scoring a crucial goal to earn his side a late 1-0 victory over Slovenia.
Last updated 27th Mar 2017
Martin received a negative reaction from sections of the Hampden Park crowd when he was introduced as a substitute in the World Cup qualifying Group F clash, but less than six minutes after coming on he grabbed an 88th-minute winner.
The win gave Scotland's ailing hopes of reaching Russia 2018 a much-needed boost.
Martin said: "It was amazing, that's all I was focused on.
"The manager sent me on to find the goal and luckily I came up with one tonight."
Martin said he did not notice the boos on his introduction, adding: "I'm absolutely delighted I had the support of everyone in the dressing room and the manager behind me.
"I'm not too concerned about that, I need to focus on my job."
Scotland's man-of-the-match was debutant Stuart Armstrong, who set up Martin's winner, and the Celtic man felt Gordon Strachan's men deserved the win.
"We created a lot of chances first half and we didn't take one," he said. "We thought maybe it's not going to be our day, but luckily Chris comes up with a piece of magic."
Strachan said he was "very proud" of his side's display.
"I'm delighted for them all," he said. "I thought they were magnificent, considering the pressure they were under. They really should be proud of themselves."
On the boos for Martin, he said: "He gets a good reception from the players and the staff."
Strachan also pointed out the likes of Kenny Dalglish and Gary McAllister were also booed by Scotland fans during their careers, adding: "How's that for company?"
He also had words of high praise for Armstrong, saying: "Stuart Armstrong could be the best Scottish debut I've ever seen."