Allan Saint-Maximin: Kevin Phillips issues ‘huge’ Newcastle United verdict
Kevin Phillips has heaped praise on the “unplayable” Allan Saint-Maximin after Newcastle United’s win over Aston Villa.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Sunderland and England striker said Eddie Howe has “a top-class player on his hands” in the 24-year-old.
Saint-Maximin starred for the Magpies last week in crucial wins over Everton and Aston Villa.
The French forward has completed 167 successful dribbles in the Premier League this season – 60 more than second-placed Raphinha. [Kickest]
As quoted by the Northern Echo (11 February), Howe is adamant Saint-Maximin’s long-term future is at St. James’ Park.
The Toon boss is confident the fan favourite can achieve all his ambitions on Tyneside under new ownership.
Phillips believes Saint-Maximin would have earned a big move by now had he been more consistent.
“I need to be careful what I say here but If he could find consistency every week, he probably wouldn’t be at Newcastle,” he told Football Insider. “He is that good when he’s in form.
“It’s really a positive from Newcastle’s point of view because they have a top-class player on their hands. More and more, there is an end product after these runs. It’s a bonus.
“He was unplayable against Everton the other night. That is huge credit to the player.
“Eddie Howe needs consistency from him now until the end of the season.”
Saint-Maximin has contributed five goals and three assists in 23 Premier League appearances this season.
His contract runs until the summer of 2026.
In other news, a medical expert has issued a verdict on Callum Wilson playing again this season.