There was a time when Allan Saint-Maximin, whether out of form or carrying a knock, simply had to play for Newcastle United. From his 2019 arrival until the Saudi-backed takeover last October, the Frenchman’s electrifying performances were one of the only reasons supporters still attended St James’ Park.
Toon fans have been treated to some stellar widemen from across the English channel. David Ginola, Laurent Robert and Hatem Ben Arfa dazzled on the Gallowgate turf in previous years and Saint-Maximin is the modern-day incarnation.
In the latter days of Mike Ashley’s tenure, the maverick - playing in a defensive-minded side - would often conjure up some magic to get the Magpies over the line. Saint-Maximin's importance was especially noted in his debut season when Newcastle won just one game without him featuring.
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A long-term injury to the 25-year-old, like the one suffered from November to January in 2020-21, used to trigger relegation panic among supporters. Fast forward to the present and barely a mutter was heard when Saint-Maximin came off the bench on 82 minutes against Leicester City.
Despite playing half an hour in the Carabao Cup win over Bournemouth, Eddie Howe kept the winger on the bench as the Premier League resumed. The prospect of snubbing the flamboyant Frenchman appeared ludicrous 12 months ago.
Before 2022, Newcastle won just 17 percent of their games when Saint-Maximin did not start - compared to 31 percent with him in the line-up. Looking at games played this year alone, United have won 69 percent of fixtures without their former talisman in the XI.
The brutal truth for Saint-Maximin which, in turn, is a huge positive for United, is the club are no longer reliant on his services. Newcastle’s frontline had become a one-trick pony in recent years but their recent form was achieved without him playing much of a part.
Howe has inspired the Magpies up to third in the Premier League - a remarkable feat considering the modest financial backing. Eight wins in their last nine games were earned with Saint-Maximin barely contributing. In total, he has played a combined 40 minutes from the substitutes’ bench since injuring his hamstring in August.
A fully fit, hungry and efficient Saint-Maximin could prove devastating for Newcastle. On his day, few players in the top flight can bamboozle defenders with such ease. But his current status as an impact player - rather than an integral starter - is a reflection of just how much his stock has fallen.
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