Newcastle United could axe Man United game plan after training ground pictures emerge – pundit
Paul Robinson has suggested the potential absences of Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin would be a “big blow” after they were missing from Newcastle United’s training gallery.
The former Spurs and England goalkeeper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the Magpies could be forced to change tact against Man United on Sunday (16 October) if the pair aren’t fit.
Saint-Maximin, 25, and Almiron, 28, were both missing from pictures posted by official club media (12 August) in the build-up to the trip to Old Trafford.
The Paraguayan has started all nine of Newcastle’s Premier League fixtures this season, scoring four goals to equal his most productive season in England.
Saint-Maximin hasn’t been as effective but has rightfully earned a reputation as one of the Magpies’ most dangerous attacking threats.
Newcastle sit sixth in the Premier League after back-to-back big wins against Fulham and Brentford.
Robinson suggested Eddie Howe’s side will have wanted to attack Man United in a similar way but could be hamstrung by potential injuries to the “creative” pair.
He told Football Insider: “Almiron has been brilliant this season.
“He’s been revitalised and he looks a completely different player. Saint-Maximin as well, we know his qualities.
“They’ll be a big miss because Newcastle will have wanted to get at Man United – they won’t sit back.
“It’s not the Newcastle of old who will play 5-4-1 and look to hold Man United off. They’re a team full of creativity.
“They’ll hope to have them fit. To miss them both would be a big blow. Missing just one, they can manage – but Almiron is becoming a key figure for them.”
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