Allardyce denies readiness to sell Martins

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Martins, who scored 17 times in his first season at St James' Park, was said to be a possible sacrifice as Allardyce looks to inject new blood into his squad.

Staying put: Newcastle's Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins

However, Allardyce told Newcastle's official website, www.nufc.co.uk: "The story is complete and utter fabrication. There is nothing in it whatsoever."

Allardyce has already intimated his frustration at his relative lack of success in the transfer market this summer and a series of injury setbacks have also hampered the Magpies' preparations for the new season.

Now Nigerian full-back Celestine Babayaro and midfielder Emre look set to miss the Premier League opener at Bolton with groin and ankle problems respectively.

Allardyce told the Newcastle Chronicle: "I think they might be fit, but I wouldn't think they'll be physically and mentally ready for the start of the Premiership.

The Magpies boss revealed a new approach may be required to solve Babayaro's problem, which severely curtailed his first-team appearances last season.

He added: "It might be something in his make-up as to how the muscle reacts to fatigue. If we can cure that we might cure his problems.

"I don't think he's ever had someone look at it like that before."