Eddie Howe names Newcastle United player who 'thrives' in front of home crowd

The winger scored in yesterday’s 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao at St James's Park. The goal capped what Eddie Howe described as an “excellent” performance on the left side of Newcastle’s attack.

Howe felt that Saint-Maximin – who had been more subdued in the club’s previous friendlies – “thrived” off the 46,856 home crowd, which also saw Callum Wilson find the net. Saint-Maximin pressed and tracked back – and took his goal well.

“I thought he was excellent today,” said United’s head coach. I think Allan thrives off the crowd here. He thrives off the energy – and the love that the crowd have for him. I think you could see that in his performance – I thought it was probably his best performance during pre-season.

"He took his goal very well, worked hard and looked a real threat – I was delighted for him.”