Newcastle fans have been dealt something of an injury boost following the latest developments on the fitness of Allan Saint-Maximin.
What’s the story?
According to the Daily Mail, the French winger has made a surprise visit to Monaco as he recovers from a groin injury that has forced his absence from Steve Bruce’s plans.
Club sources say they were aware of the player’s movements and gave him permission to make the trip to the principality — though the visited coincided with his 24th birthday.
Believed to be side-lined until April, the player is understood to have travelled for ‘checks’ despite travel restrictions being in place for all but ‘essential travel’, according to local guidelines.
The French trickster has since arrived back on Tyneside and is complying with isolation requirements. He will then complete the rehabilitation process with the medical staff at Newcastle.
The Verdict
With just two wins from Newcastle’s last 19 games in all competitions, Saint-Maximin’s impending return is timely.
It is dubious as to whether Saint-Maximin’s trip was strictly permissible or whether he was playing fast and loose with the rules, though any specialist medical purpose could boast some merit.
For Newcastle fans, any concerns are surely temporary: every creative asset will need to be leveraged as the Magpies teeter precariously above the relegation zone, and Saint-Maximin’s footballing acumen could be vital.
The likes of Callum Wilson, who is the club’s top Premier League scorer, and Miguel Almiron also remain ruled out for the foreseeable future.
Consequentially, fans will eagerly await a fitter squad as the league enters a decisive phase.
