Allan Saint-Maximin: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Newcastle verdict after ‘devastating’ news confirmed
Allan Saint-Maximin’s injury absence could be “devastating” with Newcastle facing four games in the next 12 days, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old “superstar” will be “sorely missed” by the Magpies.
Saint-Maximin last played for Newcastle during the win over Aston Villa on 13 February but has missed the last two Premier League fixtures through injury.
As quoted by Chronicle Live yesterday (4 March), manager Eddie Howe revealed that the Frenchman is “yet to train” with the team ahead of the trip to Brighton on Saturday (5 March).
The Magpies boss claimed he will have to make a “late assessment” on the winger’s status following yesterday’s session.
Whelan suggested the 24-year-old’s absence could prove “pivotal” to the result at St James’ Park.
“Saint-Maximin is their superstar,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s the one player who can really drive forward and create something with the ball at his feet.
“He’s that direct player who can take the ball from 35 yards out and score a goal. He will be sorely missed if he’s not available. It could be devastating for them with four games in the next two weeks.
“This Brighton game could be a really pivotal fixture for Newcastle. If they can get three points then that really does give them a massive amount of breathing space.“
Newcastle sit 14th in the Premier League, four points clear of the drop zone.
The Magpies face Brighton (5 March), Southampton (10 March), Chelsea (13 March), and Everton (17 March) in the next two weeks.
In other news, Kieran Maguire tips Newcastle to hire a “world-class” transfer expert as new details revealed.