It’s very clear that Newcastle United’s two best wingers are Allan Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser.
Since Eddie Howe was appointed, the pair have played basically every game on the flanks for the Magpies.
Saint-Maximin has been his usual, unpredictable and enigmatic self, while we’ve seen a real resurgence from Fraser. He looks fitter than he ever has in a Toon shirt, and is starting to really impact games.
But the Toon boss has been without one of his star wingers for the previous two games. Injury has seen Saint-Maximin miss the draw with West Ham and the win at Brentford.
There is hope that he could return this weekend against Brighton, and that creates a head-scratching conundrum for Howe.
Fraser and Saint-Maximin fighting for left flank
While he often played up front for Steve Bruce, Saint-Maximin has returned to the left wing since Howe took over. It allows him to drive at the right-back, cutting in on his favoured foot to devastating effect.
Meanwhile, Fraser has been deployed on the right. That’s despite the fact he spent most of his Bournemouth days on the opposite flank.
Throughout his resurgence, the Scotland international has been a right midfielder. However, that changed against Brentford.
With Saint-Maximin out again, Fraser was given the chance to play in his preferred position. And it was a chance he took with both hands.
The 28-year-old was fantastic last weekend. He gave the Brentford defence a torrid time, and dovetailed brilliantly with Matt Targett. Fraser played a key role in the opening goal, linking up with Fabian Schar to provide a magical cross that Joelinton headed home.
Fraser looked even more dangerous on the left, giving Howe a decision to make.
If Saint-Maximin is fit, he should start against Brighton. But does he immediately take back his place on the left? Or does Fraser’s Brentford showing earn him another chance on his preferred side?
Defensive awareness could be what influences Howe’s decision. Targett is a defender who doesn’t need much protection in front of him. In contrast, our right side of defence is severely weaker after Kieran Trippier’s injury.
With that in mind, it would perhaps make more sense for Fraser to return to the right and allow Saint-Maximin the freedom of the left wing.
It would be harsh on the 2020 signing, but his work rate and endeavour is perhaps better suited to the right side of midfield.
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