Allan Saint-Maximin was Newcastle United’s star player against Manchester City on Sunday, but he received some abuse from a fan before he began to shine.
That’s according to the Athletic, who state that the Frenchman exchanged words with a supporter when the Magpies were 1-0 down.
Ilkay Gundogan opened the scoring in the fifth minute. At that moment it looked like it could be a long afternoon.
But Newcastle battled back, inspired by the brilliance of Saint-Maximin. And he had a point to prove himself.
Saint-Maximin’s fan altercation
The Athletic state that one fan in the East Stand aired their grievances with the 25-year-old when Eddie Howe’s side were losing 1-0. Saint-Maximin responded to the fan, but then let his football do the talking.
He provided the cross for Miguel Almiron’s equaliser, getting the better of Kyle Walker and Rodri in the process. Then the second came when he drove inside at the City defence and slotted in Callum Wilson.
The second goal was the perfect example of Saint-Maximin releasing the ball at the right time. Then all it took was two touches from Wilson and Newcastle were ahead.
According to the Athletic, Saint-Maximin gestured towards the East Stand after the Magpies’ second goal, seemingly shrugging his shoulders in the direction of the fan he previously received flack from.
Blockbuster performance from ASM
Saint-Maximin certainly silenced any critics with his performance against Manchester City. He was even involved in the third goal, with his mazy run leading to John Stones taking him out. Kieran Trippier did the rest with a wonderful free-kick.
Sunday’s performance needs to Saint-Maximin’s standard. He needs to have more of an impact on games. At times he hasn’t been massively influential since Howe was appointed.
But Sunday saw Howe finally get the best out of ASM, and without him we wouldn’t have laid a glove on the champions.
Saint-Maximin is sadly a player who will blow hot and cold. With the way he plays, it’s impossible to operate at that level each and every week.
But he needs to find a more consistent base, because when he’s hot, it’s scolding. He’s unplayable.
Newcastle’s number 10 stood up and responded to the criticism and proved himself. Hopefully it’s the catalyst for an excellent season in black and white.
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