Martinez Squad Are Not Distracted Over Bodde Saga

Roberto Martinez has indicated that the players are not distracted despite the ongoing Ferrie Bodde transfer saga.

Time is ticking down on the start of the football season due to commence on the 9th August against Charlton Athletic and in one of the most protracted negotiations to grip the club in decades Bodde is still firmly in Roberto Martinez's plans. So much so the midfielder will be part of the travelling party to Östersund in Sweden as the next phase of pre season gets under way.

This has come after Rams chairman Adam Pearson who is no stranger to controversy with Swansea City that the Pride Park club had for the second time given up the chase for the Dutchman. Martinez has opted not to fine the player but has been thought to have severely reprimanded him for comments attributed to him regarding his desire to join Derby County.

What is clear is that the Spaniard believes that this Boddegate saga has and will not be a distraction in his ongoing preparations for the clubs first season back in the second tier of British football in 24 years.

Martinez Told The SWEP:

"Ferrie's a player in demand, and all the top teams have got players in demand. In that respect we are happy to be in this situation. Ferrie is someone we were desperate to sign 12 months ago and he has shown why. He is a top quality player and the interest is normal. But he is a Swansea City player until something else happens and he is coming to Sweden with us." Martinez On Derby County's Bodde Withdrawal: "I've seen this time after time. It was the same when Ronaldinho joined Barcelona from Paris St Germain and you always get this sort of thing. It's all part of negotiation. It will take more than something like this to upset us when we are looking forward to our most exciting season in 24 years. We have a very competitive, very healthy squad where everyone works hard and no distractions will affect that."

Tickets for Kristian O Leary's testimonial game against premiership new boys West Bromwich Albion on August 2nd will be on sale from Monday. Only the West and East stands will be open which means Season Ticket holders are NOT guaranteed their seats. Tickets cost £15 for adults and £7.50 for concessions (full time student, senior citizens, disabled and children under-16). Family deals are available and for £25 for one adult and two children can take in the game whilst £40 will cover two adults and two children.

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