Allan Saint-Maximin has been backed to become Kylian Mbappe’s World Cup strike partner.
Eddie Howe has vowed to help Newcastle United’s mercurial winger fulfil his dream of playing in Qatar in November - alongside the Paris St Germain superstar.
The 24-year-old winger has yet to win an international call above U21 level, with coach Didier Deschamps picking the likes of Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann and Karim Benzema.
Everton boss Frank Lampard labelled Saint-Maximin as “unplayable at any level” after his influence on Newcastle’s win on Tuesday night, and he will be a marked man against Aston Villa on Sunday.
He has scored five goal and three assists this season, his best return, and has stayed fit playing full 90 minutes.
Howe said: “Can he play for France? 100pc he can achieve that. He has got everything you would want in the locker already.
“His performance the other day, his cross for Ryan Fraser’s goal, was incredible. But his work rate, endeavour and attitude were great too.
“He has the talent to do what he wants to do and it is about finding that consistency.
“We have built a good relationship in a short period and I’m getting to know him more, how to get more out of him and add layers to his game.
“I am so excited by him. He steps on the pitch and you don’t know what he will do, or how he will win a match, because he is a match winner.
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“Maxi is the best dribbler I have worked with. There are always ways to improve. That can be sitting down with a player and asking questions about decisions on the pitch and say could that be a better decision.
“We do that with every player. He works hard, he is always wanting to stay out longer.”
Under Mike Ashley’s ownership the plan may have been to cash in on Saint-Maximin, bought for £20m from Nice.
But Howe says they are now in a different position adding: “There is no intention to lose Maxi. No indication thet is head is anywhere but Newcastle and elevating us out of the difficulties we are in.
“He loves playing at St James’ Park and is idolised by the fans. It is key we help improve him. Find an edge to make his game better and he will enjoy a great career and be here many years.”
Kieran Trippier is a major doubt after picking up a calf injury, and Villa loanee Matt Targett is inelligible. But Dan Burn, Javier Manquillo or Paul Dummett could slot in.
Howe says his players are enjoying the positive mood after the Toon climbed out of the bottom three this week for the first time since September.
He added: “We have had a great vibe from the players. Their response to the work has excellent and I have to compliment them. You can’t give work to players who don’t want it, but they have wanted it.”
Howe has welcomed working with a director of football as Newcastle get close to appointing Dan Ashworth from Brighton.
He added: “I can work under any framework. I am a firm believer the stronger your team the more you can support your players.”
