Nigel Martyn was brought to Elland Road by Howard Wilkinson from Crystal Palace for a then record goalkeeper fee of £2.25 million in the summer of 1996. He would go on to become the club's first-choice goalkeeper for six seasons and will be remembered by a generation of supporters for string of outstanding and unforgettable performances between the sticks. Indeed his consistency was such that years later at a supporters' dinner, Martyn was named officially as United's greatest ever goalkeeper, beating off competition from the likes of Gary Sprake and John Lukic – men who both won championship medals at Elland Road. LEEDS UNITED IN FOCUS: Gary Sprake | David Harvey
1. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn pictured with fellow new Leeds United signings Ian Rush and Lee Bowyer in August 1996.
2. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn claims the ball during the Premier League clash against Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium in December 1996. The game finished goalless. Photo: Getty
3. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn saves Leeds United from exiting the FA Cup at the third round stage in January 1997 after making a penalty save in the 88th minute against Crystal Palace. The Whites won the replay 1-0 at Elland Road. Photo: Dan Oxtoby
4. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn celebrates saving a penalty during the FA Cup fifth round clash against Portsmouth in February 1997. The Whites lost 3-2. Photo: Steve Riding
5. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn celebrates with goalscorer David Wetherall at full time after Leeds United beat Manchester United at Elland Road in September 1997.
6. Nigel Martyn in focus
Nigel Martyn claims the catch above the head of Arsenal's Tony Adams during the Premier League clash at Highbury in December 1999. Photo: Getty