Eddie Howe has strengthened his Newcastle United squad with two major signings this summer, but he has also lost a key player.
The pressures of financial fair play forced the Magpies to get rid of Allan Saint-Maximin, who has joined Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli for £23million.
He issued an emotional goodbye to everyone associated with the club, and received kind tributes from the likes of Joe Willock. Everyone is sad to see Maxi leave, but it was a case of needs must.
The 26-year-old has already enjoyed a bright start to life in Saudi Arabia, scoring in a friendly on his debut for Al Ahli, much to the delight of Bruno Guimaraes.
It is clear that Saint-Maximin was well liked at St James’ Park, and now Eddie Howe has gone into detail about what the Frenchman meant to Newcastle.
Eddie Howe thinks Newcastle will miss Allan Saint-Maximin
Howe has spoke to Sky Sports, and paid tribute to everything Saint-Maximin did for the club during his four years on Tyneside.
“What a talent,” he said.
“An incredible player. Very unpredictable in a sense that when he’s playing there’s an air of excitement when he gets the ball because you don’t quite know what is going to happen next. He has the ability to beat four or five people in one move.
“I think when you look back through the history of what he’s done for Newcastle – he’s been incredible, because during the dark times he really was a beacon of light really. He offered hope for the supporters and everyone connected with the club.
“He’s going to be a big miss. I think he was popular in the dressing room, very popular with the supporters and I had a really good relationship with him.”
Saint-Maximin’s reply to Howe
Sky Sports released a video of Howe speaking about Saint-Maximin on Twitter, which prompted a reply from the now former Newcastle United player.
Saint-Maximin wrote: “Best manager ever I will never forget you I wish you all the best and thanks again for all the things you have done for me.”
It is a classy response from Saint-Maximin, who has spoken really highly about Howe and his abilities as a manager.
A new hero must emerge at St James’ Park
It is such a shame that Saint-Maximin is no longer a Newcastle United player. Howe summed up perfectly what Maxi meant to the club and the fans, especially during the Steve Bruce era. He truly was that beacon of hope.
But now Newcastle need a new hero. There are obviously fan favourites at St James’ Park, but Saint-Maximin was a maverick who could get you on the edge of your seat in an instant.
Out of the entire Newcastle squad, Anthony Gordon looks like the most likely to step into that role. His direct running and speed makes him very exciting, and he looks to be in fine form heading into the new season. On top of that, he is taking Allan Saint-Maximin’s number 10 shirt.
Saint-Maximin really will be a big miss, but Newcastle have proven that they can be successful without him.
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