Newcastle United make decision on Allan Saint-Maximin future after transfer bombshell

Eddie Howe says Allan Saint-Maximin remains part of Newcastle United’s future after the Frenchman revealed he had a chance to join another club in January.

The 26-year-old started the 2022-23 Premier League campaign in top form but his involvement since has been limited because of a hamstring injury.

Starting just six Premier League games since August, Saint-Maximin has only recently won his spot back in the starting XI. He claimed an assist for Joe Willock’s opener in the 2-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday and reminded his doubters of his quality.

After reported interest from AC Milan at the beginning of the year, Saint-Maximin’s future has been a topic of discussion on Tyneside but Howe reinforced his hopes of keeping the player l

Asked if the winger was a big part of his plans, Howe replied: “Without a doubt, I wouldn’t be picking him in the team if he wasn’t part of the now and the future because I don’t believe in that.

“The rest is up to Allan. Allan has to perform week in, week out to maintain his standing in the group. That’s the same for any player. We really like him, we really respect him, he can make a difference for us.”

Saint-Maximin’s fuelled talk about his future in the build-up to the win over the Red Devils in an interview with Sky Sports.

“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,” said Saint-Maximin. “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.”

Get the latest Newcastle United headlines with our free football newsletter! Follow the action from St James’ Park and beyond as we bring the sport news to you. Visit our website here to sign up.