Allan Saint-Maximin may have to settle for a spot on the bench once again when Newcastle United take on Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday, according to The Athletic journalist Chris Waugh.
The former Chronicle reporter claimed via a live Q&A session on The Athletic’s website on Thursday afternoon that the 22-year-old summer signing is seen more like an impact substitute at the moment and is expected to remain on the bench for upcoming fixtures.
“Certainly Saint-Maximin has talent and the ability to excite but for the next couple of weeks at least I think you’re likely to see him used as an impact substitute, with Joelinton and Almiron as the front two. In time, Bruce will look to get Saint-Maximin into the side,” said Waugh.
Saint-Maximin certainly made an impact when he came off the bench in Newcastle’s clash against Arsenal but unfortunately failed to help his new side avoid defeat at St James’ Park.
OPINION
Saint-Maximin showed on Sunday that he has something about himself when he comes off the bench and is able to cause some issues for opposing defenders. According to stats by WhoScored, the French forward completed 100 per cent of his passes once he was substituted on in the 66th minute. The former Nice player also completed two dribbles – only Isaac Hayden completed more for Newcastle – and was only dispossessed once by Arsenal. Saint-Maximin looked like he could make a difference and maybe against a weaker time, like this weekend’s opponents Norwich, he could make an even bigger impact. It is already looking as though Newcastle might struggle to score goals this season. Joelinton has hardly been prolific in his career and Miguel Almiron is yet to register a goal or assist since his January move to Tyneside. Saint-Maximin could be the man to fire the Magpies to safety under Bruce’s leadership.
