Ex-Bristol City striker now free agent six months after exit as promotion hero leaves job

Chris Martin has departed Bristol City’s Championship rivals QPR following a short spell at the club.

The 34-year-old signed a six-month deal at Loftus Road following his departure from the Robins, and scored four goals in 16 matches for the Hoops. His goals - including a winner against Championship winners Burnley helped Gareth Ainsworth’s side retain their second tier status.

Martin however is now on the search for his next club, though QPR are keen to re-sign him. He officially left them on Saturday, but according to West London Sport, the door is open for a return. Martin is assessing his options amid transfer interest from Blackpool, and will take his time before making a decision on his future.

The 17-time Scotland international scored 17 goals in 95 appearances and got 11 assists during his two-and-a-half seasons at Ashton Gate. He has only played outside England’s top two divisions three times in career, having played in League Two for Luton in 2009, as well as winning the League One title with Norwich City in 2010, and then a brief loan spell at Swindon Town in 2013.

Sunday Mirror Sports editor Darren Witcoop claims Blackpool are amongst those interested in prizing Martin away from the capital, along with several League One sides. Despite approaching the end of his career, it is said that he wants a longer-term deal at his new side.

As for what other former Bristol City players are up to, there’s been an incoming and an outgoing in League One. Martin’s former Derby County teammate Richard Keogh has rejoined Wycombe Wanderers following his exit from Ipswich Town.

The 36-year-old was at Bristol City for three years and made 53 appearances for the Robins between 2005 and 2008. In between his three-year stint in the West Country, he had a loan spell at Wycombe in November 2005 and made three appearances.

“He’s a real leader and exactly the type of character you want in your changing room,” said Chairboys boss Matt Bloomfield.

“Alongside his undoubted ability on the pitch. I know how highly regarded he was at Ipswich last season, even when he wasn’t in the team, because of the help and guidance he was able to give to his team-mates.

“He’s still got that hunger to extend his career and to achieve more success, and I think it’s a really important signing for us to make, giving us another strong option at the back.”

Meanwhile Aaron Wilbraham has left Shrewsbury Town and has been replaced by former Bristol Roers defender Marcus Bignot. Wilbraham was assistant manager to Steve Cotterill, who brought him to Bristol City, and then to Shrewsbury. The departure of Cotterill and the appointment of former Portsmouth midfielder Matt Taylor has seen Wilbraham leave his post.

In a club statement, it read: “Everyone at Shrewsbury Town thanks Alby for his commitment and service over the last two-and-a-half years and wishes him all the very best for the future.”