Eddie Howe has revealed how excited he is to be working with Allan Saint-Maximin following his arrival at Newcastle United.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he’s revealed that the 24-year-old responded “excellently” to his first two days at the club – which saw our new head coach put the players through their paces on the training ground, not hand out days off.
Howe has also spoken about the challenge he’ll face to get the best out the “unique” Frenchman, discussing the importance of us setting up in a way that allows him to shine, while ensuring he “contributes to the team” himself.
Here’s what he had to say when asked about our star man:
“Really, really pleased to be working with Maxi.
“I think he is a very, very unique talent.
“Game winner, match winner, a real difference maker for us.
“First and foremost, we have to find a way to function as a team, to get the best out of him.
“But he has to also contribute to the team, the two things go hand in hand.
“So, really excited to try and figure out ways to get him to play at his best levels.
“His response in the two days has been excellent.”
Firstly, that last line is an encouraging one, as some on social media have wondered if the Frenchman would struggle with the sort of high-intensity training sessions Howe has thrown in from the off.
He is our match winner and most talented players, but he also needs to work harder for the team – so talk of him responding excellently on the training ground is a great early sign.
Let’s hope Howe can get the best out of him, not only finding a position and formation that allows him to thrive, but improving his fitness and all round ability to perform at a consistent level – both on and off the ball.
You mention Howes high intensity training sessions.
One of the factors that contributed to Bournemouth getting relegated was a horrendous streak of injuries to key players.
Something to be wary of with our history of injuries, often been attributed to the surface at the training ground.
I hope that’s something on his “To-Do” list.
Helen Clarey(Quote)
Talking of “to-do” lists anybody know what’s happened to Bruce’s backroom staff? Anything been heard yet?
Helen Clarey(Quote)
Maybe hey haven’t noticed he’s gone. They may think he is having one of his little holidays ❓
Joe Harvey(Quote)
Based on the photos from the first two training sessions, it seems Agnew, Clemence etc. have all gone, with Jones still here.
Olly Hawkins(Quote)
Hope that Eddie has noticed lazy Shelvey leaning on the goalpost
Steve(Quote)
Gotta play him as a No10 for me. He’s devastating when he runs at teams, but he’s always running from left back where he can rarely do damage. Have him running at the box, the amount of freekicks and pens he’d win us. Then but JWP to bag the freekicks and you’re away!
Helen Highwater(Quote)