Russell Martin "disappointed" Norwich City's move for Steven Naismith failed

Russell Martin has admitted that he is "disappointed" that Norwich City's deadline-day move for Everton forward Steven Naismith failed to go through.

The Canaries reportedly tabled an £8m offer for the Scotsman, but the Merseyside club rejected the bid.

Martin, who plays alongside Naismith in the Scotland team, has revealed that he and his club teammate Steven Whittaker would have welcomed their fellow countryman with open arms.

"I'm disappointed we couldn't get him in the end because he'd have been a fantastic signing," the Daily Record quotes Martin as saying.

"Steven and I were asked recently what we thought about him and we both sang his praises. He would have been an immense signing for us but it's not happened and I'm sure he'll do a great job when he goes back to Everton. I'd rather play with him than against him, that's for sure."

Naismith joined Everton from Rangers in 2012.