Joe Willock has lauded his Newcastle teammate Allan Saint-Maximin, in an interview with The Athletic published today.
The midfielder sat down with the publication to talk about a number of subjects, including his move to St. James’ Park, his form, Steve Bruce and Eddie Howe.
It has been a tricky term for Willock thus far.
Nobody expected him to replicate the goalscoring form he showed whilst on loan with the club last term.
But some did expect him to have netted a few times by now. Unfortunately, Willock is still yet to get off the mark in 2021/22.
Hopefully he will soon come good, as the club put in a big effort to sign him permanently for £25 million.
Apparently, one man who was key to that signing was Saint-Maximin.
The Athletic say the Frenchman messaged Willock ‘repeatedly’ about coming back to the club.
Willock said: “We have a really good relationship. We speak every day and I really appreciate him. He helped me settle in and helped convince me to come back. He’s a funny guy, my boy. But he’s also ridiculously talented and it’s playing with players like him that convince me that this club will only rise.”
Newcastle may need Agent Allan next month
So not only is Saint-Maximin a fine footballer, he is also quite persuasive it would seem.
Newcastle’s current league position is not so enticing for potential new signings, but perhaps the prospect of playing with Saint-Maximin can be for some.
He isn’t in the best form right now, but there is no denying that on his day, the 24-year-old is exhilarating.
Signing new players may be hard work next month, but maybe Saint-Maximin could even do his bit and help convince those that may be on the fence.
A little word in the ear from the Magpies’ star player could well make all the difference.
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