Mark Douglas has claimed that Newcastle United fans should not worry over the fitness of winger Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of the game against Chelsea.
The Frenchman had to be helped down the tunnel at half time in the 1-0 win over Manchester United last time out but returned in the second-half to play a vital part in Matty Longstaff’s goal.
Chronicle journalist, Douglas revealed that the 22-year-old has been working closely with rehabilitation fitness coach Cristian Fernandez, and has been undergoing solo work on the treadmill over the past week.
“I know a few fans have been concerned when they have not seen Saint-Maximin in the club’s training galleries, for example, but I would not be worried too much by that,” Douglas wrote on the Chronicle website.
Saint-Maximin has only made two starts since arriving from OGC Nice in the summer, with another two appearances off the bench.
OPINION
This is the news that all Newcastle fans will have been crossing their fingers to hear in the past couple of months. The 22-year-old has been one of the very few bright sparks in the final third for the Magpies this season, as they have struggled to make much impact in front of goal. Players such as Miguel Almiron and Joelinton have been poor while making little impact in the North East, and only have one goal between them to show for their efforts under Bruce. Saint-Maximin has excelled on the ball during his lack of playing time so far, with his pace and directness causing real problems for opposing defences during the games he has featured in. The exciting Frenchman has completed 2.3 dribbles per game so far this season according to WhoScored, the most in the entire squad and more than double the amount of Joelinton and Almiron have managed in games combined. Those stats highlight the danger he brings to opposition sides, and Bruce will no doubt be delighted that he should be ready for the trip to Stamford Bridge.
