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A North East-based reporter has given been a “one-week ban” by Newcastle United, according to his newspaper.

The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope did not attend yesterday’s pre-match press conference following discussions with the club.

Steve Bruce, United's head coach, had angrily denied a claim that there had been a “fallout” with Allan Saint-Maximin last weekend.

Matt Hughes, Hope’s colleague, today reported: “Sportsmail's Craig Hope has been given a one-week ban by Newcastle after a story this week which revealed details of Allan Saint-Maximin's disagreement with Steve Bruce over his fitness.”

Saint-Maximin, left out of the starting XI against Burnley at St James’s Park last weekend because of what Bruce described as a “sore” hamstring, was outstanding in Tuesday night’s FA Cup win over West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns. The winger could also start this afternoon's Premier League game against Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium.

Reporter 'banned' by Newcastle United over disputed Allan Saint-Maximin story