Pundit issues ‘massive’ Saint-Maximin claim and tells Newcastle star to ‘wake up’
Newcastle star Allan Saint-Maximin is key to the club’s chances of staying in the Premier League.
That’s according to former West Ham hitman Frank McAvennie, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the attacker’s form.
Saint-Maximin, 24, has scored three goals and chipped in with three assists in the Premier League this season.
He started the season in fine form but has only provided one goal contribution in his last 12 outings.
Saint-Maximin was key to Newcastle’s survival last season.
McAvennie claims the player’s head has dropped in recent weeks and has told Eddie Howe he needs to find his best form ahead of the second half of the season.
“Look at Saint-Maximin,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“The boy is a real talent, we have seen him prove that so many times over the last few years.
“He started the season so well but there has been a massive drop in form. He needs to wake up a bit.
“I see him and his head drops when he’s playing. It must be so frustrating for him to be surrounded by players who don’t have his ability.
“That’s why Newcastle have to bring in other talented players.
“That will get more out of players like Saint-Maximin and he’s the one who will save them from going down.
“Players who can change the game in an instant, you can’t buy that.
“Eddie Howe needs to work on getting Saint-Maximin back to his best, he’s a real asset in this relegation fight.”
Newcastle remain 19th in the league.
Their next game is against Man United on 27 December.
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