Allan Saint-Maximin has shared an emotional statement reflecting one of his most 'difficult' seasons as the Newcastle United fan favourite admit he is facing a 'turning point' in his career. The Magpies' No 10 started the campaign in blistering form but struggled to regain his starting spot after successive injury setbacks.
Saint-Maximin has seen his influence in black-and-white wane since the takeover and Eddie Howe's appointment, having previously been one of the team's leading stars during Steve Bruce's reign. The 26-year-old finished the latest season with just one goal and five assists, and speculation has suggested Newcastle could be tempted to cash in on the forward this summer.
Howe confirmed Saint-Maximin's future at St James' Park is down to the player himself, stressing his hope he can return for a 'massive season' next term following the final-day draw at Chelsea. However, the former Nice star has got the Toon Army debating a potential exit by sharing a lengthy review of the campaign, revealing circumstances off the pitch which contributed to his 'difficult' campaign.
READ MORE: Newcastle told it 'makes no difference' if Allan Saint-Maximin asks for a transfer
Saint-Maximin posted: "When I joined @nufc in 2019, nobody understood my choice. I always believed in this club, as soon as I step onto the pitch, the fans directly adopted me. Since then there has been highs and lows, when we were in the relegation zone, but I always believed in the team and trusted the project even if it was hard to stay in the PL, I knew that the club deserved much better and we had to prove it
"I gave everything on the pitch to keep the team at the highest level. I am grateful that some people remember that. When the club has been bought by the new owners, the fans finally got what they deserved!
"I want really want to thank all of my best supporters for supporting & believing in me, it’s because of you that I wake up everyday more determined than ever but even the people that criticize when it’s fair, because sometimes the negative is beneficial to get up. I always tried my best to help the club in the best way possible, even by playing injured…"
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"This year has been one of the most difficult year emotionally, you are not able to know that as I keep personal things for myself, but I lost some really important people, and that is nothing compared to all the things that happened in my life this year… But I always tried to be present on the pitch and give everything. I am so proud of the team and that we achieved the CL.
"I am now entering a turning point in my career and I will give everything until the end to achieve my dreams. It’s often said that human beings forget quickly, but me I won’t be able to forget everyone that love me for who I am and believe in me in difficult moments, it’s in these hard situations that we see the real supporters.
"Thanks to everyone for the support, whatever happens, I will always give everything when I have the chance to step onto the pitch. Thanks God for everything"
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