Allan Saint-Maximin has opened up about a turbulent January transfer window that also saw him leave Newcastle United. Reports had linked the Frenchman with a big-money move to Serie A champions AC Milan.
A frustrating season for Saint-Maximin was derailed due to a hamstring injury suffered in August. Newcastle excelled in his absence - a feat they rarely managed to achieve before the Saudi-backed takeover.
The mercurial winger cut a peripheral figure, with Eddie Howe in no hurry to rush him back into the team. Saint-Maximin did not start another Premier League game until February 4 against West Ham United.
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Anthony Gordon’s arrival - a direct rival for his first-team spot - also did little to quash the rumours. For the first time, Saint-Maximin has spoken about the winter unrest and revealed he had the opportunity to leave in January.
“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,” the 26-year-old told Sky Sports. “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.”
Despite not playing as much this season, Saint-Maximin has insisted he is a fighter - and will battle to retain his place. Howe has picked him in six of his last seven starting line-ups.
“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,” Saint-Maximin added. “I’m more mature now than when I joined the club three-and-half years ago and I’m ready for everything.”
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