Paul Robinson has slammed Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin after their 2-2 draw against Manchester City.
The Sky Sports pundit claimed that the French attacker would drive him crazy if he was his teammate, as he constantly needs reminding of his role at St James’ Park.
Robinson questioned the 22-year-old’s decision making in the final third at St James’ Park with his final ball, whether a shot or pass consistently not good enough for the Magpies.
“He’d drive me mad if he was in my team, I’d be on his case constantly because he’s so quick, he’s got such electrifying pace and he’s got such talent as well,” he told Football Insider.
“But he just needs a little more composure with his decision-making, his final ball, as he has so much talent but his decision-making in the final third lets him down.
“And I do think he forgets his defensive duties sometimes when he’s playing on the left-side of that midfield I think he has to be reminded of his role to trackback.”
Saint-Maximin has yet to be involved in a single goal since arriving from OGC Nice in the summer and starting eight games under Steve Bruce.
OPINION
There is no questioning that Saint-Maximin brings the excitement factor in the North East, with the young winger able to glide past opponents with ease when given space to run with the ball. There has to be a time that comes when that is not enough for the Frenchman though, and he needs to start adding goals and assists to his name if he wants to improve. Bruce has put his confidence in his front three to go out and play with freedom, and that seems to have worked. Robinson is spot on with his verdict though, and there were many times during the draw against Manchester City when Saint-Maximin lost possession or ended up on the floor, and it took him way too long to start tracking back, something that the champions usually take advantage of. Bruce will have seen that too and will make sure that it doesn’t happen again moving forward.