Eddie Howe provides ‘huge’ Newcastle United injury news ahead of Leeds United game

Allan Saint-Maximin made his Newcastle United comeback during Sunday afternoon’s 2-0 defeat to Premier League title challengers Arsenal.

The 25-year-old hadn’t featured since the 5-1 win at West Ham United on April 5 due to a hamstring injury. He travelled to France to begin his recovery before returning to the club’s training ground two weeks ago.

Saint-Maximin missed games against Brentford, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Everton and Southampton, where United collected 12 points from a possible 15, but returned to the matchday squad versus Arsenal.

United trailed the Gunners 2-0 when the Frenchman was introduced in the 78th-minute, and head coach Eddie Howe was pleased with his impact.

Asked about Saint-Maximin being back, Howe said: “Huge for us. I thought Maxi did really well when he came on. We felt he had 15 minutes maximum in his legs after only two training sessions after a long period out. Delighted with his contribution.”

Prior to his injury, Saint-Maximin had started four consecutive games - his best run in the starting XI since August - and claimed back-to-back assists in victories over Manchester United and West Ham.

“I would agree with that,” Howe said on Friday. “It’s such a shame that the two moments when you thought Maxi was entering his best form, he picked up an injury.

“Against Wolves away when he scored a spectacular goal and we lost him for a period of time. And then the West Ham game, he was really contributing assists and affecting games, and we lose him again.

“It’s been disruptive but he has trained really well, he looks in good physical condition and has a huge part to play.”

Howe’s side face Leeds United on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 12:30pm) as they look to maintain their Champions League qualification challenge.

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