Newcastle travel to Southampton on Saturday with the hope of ending a run of six away league games without a win, and pundit Alex Bruce has been speaking about one player who could make that happen.
What did he say?
Allan Saint-Maximin has lit up St James’ Park at times this season with his displays of great skill and energetic dribbling, but in recent times there have been signs that his manager may be frustrated with him.
The Daily Mail reported earlier this week that Steve Bruce and the Frenchman had fallen out, though the winger did start against West Brom in the 3-2 FA Cup win.
He was left on the bench against Burnley though, perhaps as the Magpies boss wanted to send him a message that he has to lift his performances, and if that is the case it certainly paid off against the Baggies.
Speaking about one aspect of Saint-Maximin’s game that may irk Bruce, Alex Bruce told Football Insider:
“Consistency level. I think my dad would like to see him a little bit more on the pitch.
“He’s had a couple of injuries so the reliability of putting your hat on him to do the other side, do the ugly side as well, is something that he’ll want to improve on.
“But by god, when he’s got the ball he’s got fantastic ability and he possesses that bit of magic everyone wants.”
Star performer?
While it is easy for Alex Bruce to lay blame at the door of Saint-Maximin, his criticism does seem overly harsh, as he is a young player still adapting to new surroundings and a new league.
Even if those factors weren’t present it can be argued that he has performed above average, and definitely improves Newcastle when he is in the side.
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He may not have produced the goals and assists he would have hoped for with two and one respectively, but 4.3 dribbles per game show that he does possess consistency, and actually he has been very unlucky at times – hitting the woodwork twice in the league for example.
The Magpies failed to find a way through the Clarets at the weekend but scored three on Tuesday, where Saint-Maximin showcased his talent, and Bruce should consider himself fortunate to have a player capable of winning games by himself – as he did against Oxford in the round before.
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There is undoubtedly improvements for the 22-year-old to make, particularly his composure in the final third, but that should come with time and good management, which means the Newcastle manager is also responsible for his performances.
Meanwhile, Newcastle fans have been discussing a player who has certainly divided opinion after initially promising so much…