Newcastle Top Performers vs. Sheffield: Allan Saint-Maximin

In Newcastle United’s return to the Premier League, their star winger did not disappoint.

Newcastle United played their first competitive match today as the Magpies handled Sheffield United at St. James’ Park by way of a 3-0 win. One of the best players on the day was one of the club’s most exciting options all season, who Steve Bruce said post-match “is a naturally gifted player that can do anything.”

Winger Allan Saint-Maximin, back in his trademark Gucci headband, was a key contributor for Steve Bruce’s side in the victory and was voted the Budweiser King of the Match on the Premier League’s website.

It didn’t take long after the three-month delay in EPL play for the skilled dribbler to embarrass some defenders. Early in the match, he had a hesitation step and blew past a Sheffield defender towards the end line and squared the ball in the box, but nobody could get on the end of it.

Saint-Maximin scored the first goal for Newcastle United. While it wasn’t an incredibly difficult finish after Enda Stevens’ miscue, the Frenchman still had to bury the chance and he did. It also highlighted his good movement off the ball, finding that space at the far post.

He also had a good cutback in the second half to Miguel Almiron, but the latter put his shot directly at Dean Henderson in goal for the Blades. Before being replaced in the 79th minute, he was flying up and down the wings, finding success on both sides of the goal.

As defenders continue to get into full fitness, Saint-Maximin will continue to be tough to stop with his pace and skill on the ball.