Newcastle United head to Bournemouth this weekend, and Eddie Howe has hinted that Allan Saint-Maximin will start for the Magpies.
The Frenchman returned to the Toon starting XI last week, coming in for the suspended Bruno Guimaraes. It was Maxi’s first Premier League start since August, but it was one to forget.
He really struggled against the Hammers, who did a wonderful job of nullifying him. The 25-year-old was unable to make the difference in the final third, and was eventually replaced by Anthony Gordon.
The new signing was very lively off the bench, leading to calls from fans for Gordon to replace Saint-Maximin at the Vitality Stadium.
Howe has now spoke about the game against his former club, and has suggested that he will not be dropping Saint-Maximin from the starting lineup.
Eddie Howe happy with Allan Saint-Maximin
The Toon boss has spoke to the press ahead of the trip to Bournemouth, and was asked about Saint-Maximin’s recent form.
“I think Maxi’s someone who performs with a consistent run of games, but I would say that would be the case for all player,” Howe told the Shields Gazette.
“So I think he has a window and an opportunity to impress.
“I thought there were some aspects of his game that were in a really good place last week. I thought, most importantly, he tried to give his all for the team. I don’t think there was any lack of effort from him. I thought West Ham managed him well in the game.
“Teams will always look at him as a big threat, and probably produce game plans on keeping him quiet. It’s up to us and him to try and find a solution those game plans.
“I’ve been really pleased with his attitude and how he’s worked this week. Maxi’s in a better place.”
Saint-Maximin deserves another chance in the Newcastle starting lineup
While he wasn’t great last week, it would be incredibly harsh to drop Saint-Maximin after one poor performance. He is clearly lacking match fitness, and will benefit from getting a run of games under his belt as Howe says.
Bruno’s suspension has handed him an opportunity, with places up for grabs for the upcoming Carabao Cup final.
Saint-Maximin can put himself in contention if he shines in the next two games, and he performed brilliantly on his last appearance at the Vitality Stadium. Newcastle beat Bournemouth 4-1 in July 2020, with ASM helping himself to three assists.
A similar outing will please Howe, who has praised the winger for his efforts in training this week. The manager has said he is happy with Maxi’s attitude and how he has applied himself in training, and hopefully that results in a good performance.
There is no denying his talent, but Saint-Maximin is dividing opinion right now. But Howe clearly backs him, and has defended him massively ahead of the game against Bournemouth.
It sounds like he will retain his place in the starting XI – now it will be up to Saint-Maximin to justify his selection.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
