Allan Saint-Maximin: Pundit issues ‘incredible’ claim after major Newcastle development
Newcastle United’s recent resurgence is even more impressive considering the absence of Allan Saint-Maximin.
That’s according to former West Ham hitman Frank McAvennie, speaking exclusively to Football Insider with the Magpies in “cracking” form.
Newcastle have won five of their last six games, pulling themselves seven points clear of the relegation zone.
Saint-Maximin, 24, missed Newcastle’s draw with West Ham (19 February) and win over Brentford (26 February) with an injury.
He returned in the second half of his side’s 2-1 win over Brighton on Saturday (5 March).
McAvennie insists Newcastle’s unbeaten run could continue into April once Saint-Maximin returns to full fitness.
“He’s the one who makes a real difference,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“That game against Everton a few weeks ago, he was incredible.
“The good news for Newcastle is that they don’t really rely on him these days.
“We have seen other players step up in recent weeks and they got a very good result against West Ham without him there.
“If he played in that game Newcastle might have won. He is great to watch.
“Newcastle don’t look like losing. I know they have tougher games coming up.
“But you would fancy them against anyone at the moment and once Saint-Maximin comes back properly they will go to that next level.”
Newcastle are next in action against Southampton on Thursday (10 March).
This is the first of three straight away games with trips to Chelsea and Everton to come in the next fortnight.
In other news, Kieran Trippier has “huge” role to play after injury news in the last 48 hours at Newcastle United.