Allan Saint-Maximin reveals Newcastle United departure opportunity as ‘feeling wanted’ admission made

Allan Saint-Maximin has revealed he was given a chance to leave Newcastle United in January but the club’s desire to keep him made his decision to stay put an easy one.

The Frenchman has become a fan favourite since moving to St James’ Park and is keen to play as big a role as possible as the Magpies eye a place in next season’s Champions League.

Injuries have restricted the 26-year-old to just nine Premier League starts this term but he is under contract until 2026 and keen to play a big role as long as he is wanted.

“I had the opportunity to go to another club in January but the club said they want me to stay and that I’m important,” he told Sky Sports' Keith Downie.

“When you feel that the club, the manager and every single person in Newcastle wants you then, of course, you want to stay.

“But the day I don’t have that feeling for sure I will have no other choice but to go to the place that really wants me. I don’t think about that now. I’m really focused on my goal - which is helping Newcastle try and reach the Champions League.

“After that, I will think about what is best for me and I will have a chat with the club and the manager about what they want and I will have to make a decision for sure. But I really want to see myself and my future here in Newcastle.

“I haven’t played as much this season because the team was doing so well when I was injured, but I’m happy to fight for my place. I’m more mature now than when I joined the club three-and-half years ago and I’m ready for everything.”

Newcastle take on Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon. A victory will put the Magpies above Erik ten Hag’s side on goal difference.

A win will also put them ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in fourth, with the North London club set to take on Everton on Monday night.