Allan Saint-Maximin is on course to reproduce his best form in a Newcastle United shirt - in the eyes of Eddie Howe.
The winger had a big hand in Newcastle's equaliser at Bournemouth after a telling run down the left before picking out Sean Longstaff. It was Longstaff's stinging shot that forced Neto into a save before Miguel Almiron converted.
Howe said: "With Maxi, I think he produced a much-improved performance from last week and I think that’s finding his game rhythm again. He was out for a long time, so I was pleased with him today.
READ MORE: Newcastle United player ratings: Longstaff and Trippier carry Magpies during hard fought draw
"Probably in the first two thirds he was very good. That final action was missing, but I think that will come. He needs games, and he needs that rhythm to return. There was lot of good stuff from him."
Saint-Maximin was starting only his second game since August after a hamstring injury which was followed by a run of games where he could not get into Howe's side. The former Nice star has had to wait patiently for his opportunity in Howe's starting line-up.
The Frenchman was forced off in the game and left the field holding his calf as he was flanked by club medics. But he should be fit for the Liverpool game next weekend.
Our 48-page Carabao Cup final special is available to pre-order now! Click HERE to get your copy as Newcastle United prepare for a historic day out at Wembley. Also available to purchase through local participating retailers from February 15.
READ NEXT
- The burning selection questions ahead of Newcastle United's trip to Bournemouth
- Callum Wilson vows not to celebrate if he scores for Newcastle vs Bournemouth
- Newcastle team sheet from 2020 shows club's astonishing progress
- Newcastle United have hit a 'new level' under Eddie Howe says Miguel Almiron
- Wembley talk and cup final ticket requests can't distract Newcastle