Report: Newcastle expect Saint-Maximin to return against Brentford after injury

Add as preferred source on Google

Allan Saint-Maximin missed Newcastle United’s last game due to injury, but he could be back this weekend.

It was a shock to see the Frenchman miss the trip to West Ham – it had Toon fans in a panic in the build up to kick off.

He was replaced by Jacob Murphy on the left wing, and the 26-year-old did well up against Hammers right-back Ryan Fredericks in the first half.

However, Murphy faded in the second half, and Saint-Maximin was a miss overall.

But Newcastle rallied to win a point – a very important point given the wins Watford and Burnley got later in the day.

Next up for Eddie Howe’s side is Brentford, and, despite Murphy’s showing in London, the Magpies need Saint-Maximin back.

Saint-Maximin ‘expected’ to return after injury absence

According to the Chronicle, the 24-year-old is expected back in the Toon squad this weekend. That’s a huge boost ahead of what is set to be a vital game against another relegation rival.

If we beat Brentford, we truly drag them into relegation danger – and the more teams the better. We’re on an upwards trajectory, while other sides are in freefall.

While Newcastle were functional and effective without Saint-Maximin on Saturday, he was still a big miss. He should walk back into the starting XI.

He was vital in our last clash with Brentford, netting a late equaliser in Howe’s first game as manager.

A lot has changed since then, but Saint-Maximin is still vitally important. Our chances of winning on the road and extending our run to seven unbeaten will increase if he’s back in the starting XI.