We haven’t seen Allan Saint-Maximin play since his wonder-goal in the 90th minute against Wolves but Eddie Howe has dropped the biggest hint yet that his return is imminent.
Speaking to the media this morning ahead of tomorrow’s 3pm kick-off at St James Park against the Bees, Howe said “He’s doing OK. He’s trained well this week and we’re pleased with him. He’s making good progress. There’s a chance he could be in the squad tomorrow”.
Eddie Howe on Allan Saint-Maximin:
"He's doing OK. He's trained well this week and we're pleased with him. He's making good progress. There's a chance he could be in the squad tomorrow." pic.twitter.com/fV9T7jAGwA
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 7, 2022
It’s not the first time Howe has said this in fairness, Saint-Maximin has been “close” to a return since he first pulled up with the injury. Whether his recovery has been hampered by setbacks or if Howe uses the return of Maxi as a scare tactic, who knows?
The side showed last week that they have what it takes to bag goals without their creative force, so the panic over rushing him back has subsided somewhat after the four goal display last week, especially with the performance Almiron put in. If he can replicate that display again, Maxi may have to wait for his return.
If Fit Does Maxi Get Straight Back Into The Team?
Definitely
Keep The Same Team As Last Week
If it was up to me he would, but Howe won't do it.
Joelinton is also set for a return after sitting out the Fulham game last week, although who he replaces in the midfield three is anyone’s guess. A couple of weeks ago I’d have said to drop Longstaff without giving it a second’s thought, but he had a great game last week and to be dropped after that would be a bit harsh, the same goes for Willock. Obviously, if Bruno is fit, Bruno plays.
Up top Wilson will keep his place coming away from Fulham unscathed and hungry, while Isak isn’t quite ready for a match yet, but is back running and looking strong according to Howe. It’s a similar story for Jonjo Shelvey whose recovery is ahead of schedule.
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