Newcastle United injury blow as Allan Saint-Maximin ruled out of Tottenham Hotspur clash

Allan Saint-Maximin is out of Newcastle United’s Premier League top four clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

The 25-year-old travelled to France to undergo treatment on a hamstring issue after feeling some discomfort during the 5-1 win at West Ham United.

Saint-Maximin has missed games against Brentford and Aston Villa and won’t return in time for Sunday.

“No, he’s not back in the country yet,” said Magpies’ head coach Eddie Howe “We will see him early next week. But Maxi’s fine.”

Asked if there had been a setback, Howe said: “There hasn’t been a setback, it’s just taken maybe a little bit longer than initially thought but no major setback. With hamstring injuries, we have to be careful.”

Howe had hoped to have Saint-Maximin back back within two weeks, though it was NewcastleWorld’s understanding that the winger was set for a slightly extended spell on the sidelines. Saint-Maximin’s absence now stretches into a third week.

A win for the Magpies at St James’ Park will see them open up a six-point advantage on fifth-place Spurs, and still with a game in hand to play.

Howe said: “It’s a huge game for us. There’s no denying that. At this stage of the season the games are running out and we’re playing one of our competitors in the league.

“We’re pleased to be at home and hope we can feel the force of the crowd.”

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