Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin has admitted he is ‘really disappointed’ after losing the Carabao Cup final to Manchester United.
Saint-Maximin started on the left of attack for Eddie Howe’s side at Wembley, but was unable to provide that bit of magic in the final third.
Newcastle were poor offensively in the final, with the Magpies unable to break down a stubborn Manchester United defeance.
The Frenchman was our biggest threat at times, but squandered multiple opportunites to drag Newcastle back into the game. He actually had one of our best chances, but his powerful effort was saved by David De Gea in the first half.
It was a frustrating game for Saint-Maximin, who struggled to get the better of Aaron Wan Bissaka in the second half. In the end, he was replaced by Jacob Murphy in the 78th minute.
Allan Saint-Maximin disappointed after Carabao Cup final defeat
Saint-Maximin has taken to his official Instagram account to comment on the defeat to Manchester United at Wembley.
He wrote: “I am really disappointed to be honest with you… This was one of the most important game of my career personally. I really wanted to give everything, all the fans with the amazing support they gave us deserved this win ! Unfortunately even when you give your best, it’s sometimes not enough… This shot could have changed the issues of the game … I will make sure to work hard towards our goals & find solutions to help the team in the best way possible.
Now our focus is on the rest of the season.”
Saint-Maximin must bounce back
Howe made the right decision in starting Maxi at Wembley, but he was unable to truly justify his selection. The 25-year-old was dangerous in possession but more often than not flattered to deceive in the final third.
It felt like he was our only hope at times, but he was incredibly wasteful. Erik Ten Hag’s side did a good job of shutting him down, ensuring they kept a clean sheet and won the Carabao Cup.
It was a disappointing day for Saint-Maximin, who was unable to build on his exceptional performance against Liverpool.
Now he must pick himself up again and try to get Newcastle’s season back on track. We have struggled for wins as of late, with the cup final providing a major distraction.
Now it is out of the way, and Howe must try and refocus minds to boost our bid to qualify for Europe. We need to become more ruthless and creative attack, and Saint-Maximin can be a big part of that.
Sunday was one of disappointment for Saint-Maximin – but hopefully it isn’t the only chance he gets to represent Newcastle United in a cup final.
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