Today is the day that Newcastle United play a game of football once again.
It has been almost seven weeks since the Magpies’ last fixture – a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge which was best known for Anthony Gordon’s first Toon goal and Lewis Miley’s senior debut.
It was a typical end of season affair, and now preparations have started for the new campaign. Eddie Howe’s side have their first pre-season friendly this afternoon, as they take the short trip across the Tyne to face Gateshead.
It is going to be interesting to see who plays for Newcastle, and picking a predicted starting XI was rather challenging. Howe now has a full strength squad after his international players returned on Friday, but it is unclear whether or not they will be involved.
One player who should be involved is Allan Saint-Maximin, and there will be a lot of eyes on the Frenchman at the Gateshead International Stadium.
Gateshead game is big for Allan Saint-Maximin
It is unclear what the future holds for Saint-Maximin. At the minute, rumours seem to suggest that he will be on his way out.
Reports have stated that Newcastle could cash in on ASM to ease their FFP concerns, with the 26-year-old’s departure possibly funding the arrival of Harvey Barnes.
Saint-Maximin has responded to the gossip in true Maxi fashion. The £16.5million man posted a cryptic message to his Instagram page, alongside a video of him scoring a screamer in training.
Fans would love it if he stays, as he is a maverick who can offer something completely different to every member of the Newcastle squad. But cashing in could make sense in the long run, leaving the club with a difficult decision to make.
We could learn a lot about what the future holds for Saint-Maximin today. The first indicator will be whether or not he starts against Gateshead. If he is not involved at all then alarm bells should be ringing.
But if he starts in his favoured left wing position then it should suggest that nothing is on the horizon.
If he does play, his body language could paint a very clear picture. Is he eager to get on the ball and impress? Or is he lethargic and wasteful?
Hopefully it is the former, as we want Maxi to stay at Newcastle and have a brilliant season in black and white.
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