Allan Saint-Maximin is set to return for Newcastle United’s trip to Tottenham on Sunday, according to the Chronicle.
The newspaper claim on their website that the French winger should return to fitness after missing Saturday’s 3-1 defeat against Norwich City.
The Chronicle report that Saint-Maximin picked up a hamstring injury after the opening day defeat to Arsenal, and is set to return to training this week before the Spurs’ game.
Saint-Maximin is suggested to be in contention for a starting spot against the North London club as Steve Bruce looks for a change in system after receiving criticism following the Magpies’ start to the season.
OPINION
Saint-Maximin returning could be the boost that Newcastle desperately need after their dreadful start to the Premier League. The 22-year-old brings the excitement factor to Bruce’s side, something they have been lacking in abundance so far. If the manager is to stick with his favoured partnership of Miguel Almiron and Joelinton, the suggested change of system would have to be made for Saint-Maximin to come in. The Frenchman could help bridge the gap between midfield and attack – something that has held Newcastle back and has seen them struggle to create chances in the final third. Last season at OGC Nice, the winger completed 4.2 dribbles on average per game, and also attempted 2.2 shots on goal according to WhoScored – two stats that could transform Newcastle’s blunt attacking force. If the Magpies stand any chance of picking up any sort of result against Spurs, then they must utilise the counter-attack, and Saint-Maximin is the perfect player to help them do just that.
