Martin joins Pirates on loan

The 29-year-old has fallen out of favour drastically at Kenilworth Road, as he wasn’t even awarded a squad number at the start of the season.

Speaking to the press this afternoon, Town boss John Still said: “I spoke to their manager a couple of times this week and Dave has gone down there.

“It was open for a season loan, Dave wasn’t sure that he wanted it to be a season, he was perhaps looking more towards the new transfer window which is beginning of January.”

On Martin, who has made 25 appearances for Town, scoring three times, Pirates chief Darrell Clarke told the club’s official website: “I have been chasing a winger for a couple of weeks, I wanted someone quick and direct who gets at the full backs.

“He is an out and out winger, and somebody I have been desperate to add to the squad. I am delighted that I have got him.

”He has been at a big football club in Luton, but he has been getting a bit frustrated there, as they have a massive squad at the minute.

“He wants to come here and get some games under his belt, but maybe looking to the future as well.

“He chips in with a few goals, he is very quick and direct and has good delivery, so he is just what we needed.

“He has played in the Championship, League One and League Two, and he knows the Conference very well. He is still very hungry and cannot wait to get started.” Meanwhile, chairman Nick Higgs added: “I am delighted to welcome Dave to Bristol Rovers on loan.

“This is one of the areas where we needed to strengthen, and he will provide Darrell with another option.

“Now I will continue to support the manager in his search for a new striker.”