Curle: Martin was allowed to leave Cobblers for the good of his career

Cobblers boss Keith Curle says defender Joe Martin was granted his wish to leave the club and return to League Two Stevenage for the good of his career.

The 32-year-old has not been included in a Northampton matchday squad in any competition since he was sent off against Crewe Alexandra on December 12.

With his contract due to expire at the end of the season, Martin was keen to leave the club and seek game-time elsewhere.

"We've always said that players who are not getting the game-time might not stay on the journey with us," said Curle. "It's through no fault of his own.

"When Joe's been called upon and required, he's produced capable performances. But the change of formation and playing three at the back with attack-minded wing-backs hasn't suited him.

"Joe is an orthodox left-back that can play left-sided centre-back as and when needed so for his own longevity and for his career, he needs more game-time.

"He will now be able to play during the latter stages of the season and showcase what he's about so that he can his further his career at the end of the season. We wish him all the best."