Steve Bruce admits regrets over Allan Saint-Maximin selection as Newcastle United winger leaves on crutches

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United goes off injured during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton FC at St. James Park on December 08, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images)

The Frenchman was touch and go to start for United in their 2-1 win over Southampton but played almost the full game, pulling up in added time with a hamstring injury.

The winger himself described the problem as "bad” as he hobbled away from the United tunnel after the game – and Bruce admits he regrets picking Saint-Maximin just days after he suffered an injury against Sheffield United.

"We don't know how serious it is. He hadn't recovered but he is always a bit like that. I am kicking myself because if it is a long time... we hope it is not too serious," said Bruce.

"He has been crucial to us. He is a maverick free spirit. Wanted to play. When he pulls up the way he did, that's the thing you fear."