NIGEL Martyn plans to repay his old club Leeds United by pulling out all the stops against their relegation rivals in the remaining weeks of the season.

Everton's former Elland Road keeper banished all thoughts of favouritism during last night's 1-1 draw, with a series of saves that denied Leeds the home victory they so badly needed.

But Martyn will be delighted if Eddie Gray's men hold on to Premiership status. He said afterwards: "We could do Leeds a real favour because we have Blackburn, Wolves and Manchester City still to play.

"There are no deals, I'm afraid. You just go out and play honestly and try to win every game, but I would love to help Leeds by keeping a few clean sheets against some of their rivals.

"I still live in Leeds and I was a bit sad after last night's game because they really needed to win, but hopefully they can turn things round in the remaining matches. If they play like they did against us they'll have a good chance and will win the majority of games they have left."

Martyn, who left Leeds for Goodison in September for a nominal fee, bears no grudges and was visibly moved by the rapturous reception he received from Leeds fans before and after the match.

Martyn needed three stitches inserting in a gashed knee after a collision with Alan Smith.

"Smithy hasn't changed much. It was a case of two players going honestly for the ball. I gave Smithy a hug on the pitch and wished him all the best. It's hard because I've been relegated myself with Crystal Palace and it's not a nice feeling," said Martyn.

Leeds remain in 18th place, two points behind Manchester City, Blackburn and Portsmouth but with a considerably worse goal difference.

Leeds have been dealt a cruel blow with news that midfielder Seth Johnson has a bad cruciate ligament injury that will keep him out for six to nine months.

Caretaker-manager Eddie Gray said: "He hasn't had much luck since coming to Leeds. He got in the side and was doing well so the injury is very disappointing for him and everyone at the club."

Johnson suffered the injury in Leeds' win at Blackburn last Saturday and had an exploratory operation which revealed the extent of the damage. He missed last night's game, along with Eirik Bakke whose thigh injury leaves him struggling to play again this season, and Stephen McPhail who is expected to be out for two weeks with a rib injury.

Lucas Radebe was recalled to do an emergency job in midfield and Gray said: "I thought Lucas did tremendously well. I had no doubts about putting him in the middle of the park. Wherever Lucas plays he'll do a job for you. He hadn't played for a while.

"The question over Lucas is whether his knees will stand up to it. He's a great competitor. We just need to put him in the ice tub for the two or three days before we go to Highbury.

"Arsenal will be a tough match but we have to go there and try to pick up some points. We went there last year and won. That's how I look at it."

Updated: 10:24 Wednesday, April 14, 2004