CHINESE SUPER LEAGUE SIDE MOVE: Obafemi Martins thanks Seattle Sounders fans

Nigerian international Obafemi Martins has thanked Seattle Sounders fans before revealing he will leave the club for the Chinese Super League.

The former Inter Milan, Newcastle and Birmingham striker via his official Twitter account announced his move to Shanghai Shenhua to become the latest high-profile player to seal a move to the Chinese Super League.

The 31-year-old Nigerian appreciated the fans for love shown to him during his stay at Seattle Sounders, saying: 'Seattle will always have a special place in my heart.'

'After significant reflection, I have decided to join Shanghai Shenhua of the Chinese Super League.

'When I left Nigeria for Italy at the age of 15 with the hopes of a pro career, I put everything on the line. I was immersed in an unknown culture.

'It may be difficult to understand or relate to, but I've grown to appreciate the feeling I get when entering environments where I'm not a proven footballer.

'Seattle will always have a special place in my heart.'

The Sounders later acknowledged Martins' comments in a statement on their official website.

Martins follows the likes of Colombia winger Jackson Martinez, Brazilian midfielders Ramires and Alex Teixeira, and Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic - formerly of West Ham - in moving to China.

Gervinho, Paulinho, Mohamed Sissoko, Gael Kakuta and Asamoah Gyan are other notable names who play in the 16-team Chinese Super League. The new season begins on March 4.

OBAFEMI MARTINS CAREER STATS

Reggiana (2000-01) – 2 apps 0 goals

Inter Milan (2001-06) – 136 apps 49 goals

Newcastle (2006-09) – 104 apps 35 goals

Wolfsburg (2009-10) – 25 apps 6 goals

Rubin Kazan (2010) – 17 apps 2 goals

Birmingham, loan (2010-11) – 6 apps 2 goals

Rubin Kazan (2011-13) – 18 apps 3 goals

Levante (2012-13) – 27 apps 9 goals

Seattle (2013-16) – 83 apps 43 goals

Nigeria (2004-) – 41 apps 18 goals