The arrival of Anthony Gordon at Newcastle United has put Allan Saint-Maximin under huge pressure at St James’ Park, but he isn’t the only Toon forward who should be feeling the heat.
The Frenchman started his first Premier League game since August on Saturday, playing 69 minutes in the 1-1 draw with West Ham.
It was a tough night for ASM, who was unable to have an impact against the Hammers. A lot of fans were disappointed with his performance, although Eddie Howe was quick to defend the winger’s struggles.
He was replaced by Gordon, and the £45million signing was much more impressive. He moved the ball quickly and found teammates with precision, while his through ball to Callum Wilson almost got Newcastle a winner.
It was an excellent cameo from the 21-year-old, and it has led to a lot of fans suggesting that he should start ahead of Maxi against Bournemouth this weekend.
We believe that Saint-Maixmin should retain his place and get another chance, but there is certainly pressure on him to start delivering in a black and white shirt. However, he isn’t the only Newcastle winger who needs to step up after Gordon’s arrival.
Miguel Almiron also at risk of losing place to Anthony Gordon
In the first half of the season, Miguel Almiron was Newcastle’s star player. His goalscoring form was sensational, and he is still the club’s top scorer with nine this season.
However, the goals have started to dry up. The 28-year-old has not found the net since Boxing Day, when he scored an ‘unbelievable‘ goal in the 3-0 win over Leicester.
He has still been his lively self, but has struggled to get in the goalscoring positions that he had been earlier in the season. The Paraguayan did pass up a brilliant opportunity in the 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace, unable to find the net with his weaker right foot.
While he is still playing well and is an important part of the team, the purple patch appears to be over. The combinations between Miggy and Kieran Trippier are much less regular, with teams wising up to Howe’s right-sided duo.
We are not saying that Almiron should be dropped – far from it. But, just like Saint-Maximin, he needs to raise his game following the arrival of Gordon. The Scouser can play on either flank, and will be desperate for any opportunity to get into the Toon starting XI.
Whether it’s on the left or the right, Gordon is primed to take someone’s position in the side. It is up to both Saint-Maximin AND Almiron to ensure it isn’t them.
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