Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Chronicle Live
Chronicle Live
Sport
Lee Ryder

Eddie Howe explains Allan Saint-Maximin absence and why winger was pictured in Monaco

Eddie Howe insists he will make a "late call" on Allan Saint-Maximin - despite concerning Instagram pictures of the player in France in an oxygen tent only yesterday.

Howe has also explained to supporters why the winger has gone to the south of France for treatment rather than working with existing staff at Benton.

However, when asked if Saint-Maximin would be fit for the Brentford game, Howe did not rule the prospect out entirely - although he did confirm that Ryan Fraser was fit for the encounter against the Bees.

Howe said: "Saint-Maximin we are going to make a late call on.

"He has been away getting intensive treatment.

"We said when he suffered the injury that it would not be long-term so we are keeping our fingers crossed on him.

"You have Ryan Fraser who will be OK.

"He came off the pitch but it looks like he will be fine.

"We have also had a bit of illness in the camp this week but nothing too serious."

And when asked further on Saint-Maximin's injury, Howe said: "He got a bang on the calf against Aston Villa.

"In terms of his rehab he has been away to get specialised intensive treatment abroad.

"We felt that was the quickest way to get him fit.

"He's in a very good place and he is very eager to return."

When asked why Saint-Maximin was in France in the week leading up to the game, Howe said: "There's no mystery around it we just wanted the best and most intense treatment we could.

"Allan has a relationship with a physio in Monaco so it was good for him to go back to get that."

Howe also confirmed that Javier Manquillo was back and making good progress after an ankle injury.

He said: "Manquillo came through a couple of training sessions this week.

"I would not say he was 100% fit but he is getting closer."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.