Jose Enrique is confident new boy Anthony Gordon will “give more” to Newcastle United than Allan Saint-Maximin. The latter, who has started the previous three fixtures, was the St James’ Park crowd-pleaser during his first couple of seasons.
Saint-Maximin’s electric displays on the flank were arguably the key reason why supporters continued to show up and watch the Mike Ashley era. However, under Eddie Howe and particularly this season, the Frenchman’s influence has faded - although he impressed in the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
Until recently, injuries had hampered his campaign and Newcastle excelled without him. A fully fit Saint-Maximin poses a threat to any side in the Premier League but fans have rarely witnessed that in 2022-23.