Micah Richards told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport that Patrick Vieira told him that Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin has ‘absolutely everything’.
Now at Crystal Palace, Vieira was at Nice when Saint-Maximin was working his magic in Ligue 1.
That path has seen him land on Newcastle’s doorstep where he has become a key player under Steve Bruce.
Richards spoke about the ‘unpredictable’ nature of Saint-Maximin’s game and how he needs to start adding consistency to his performances.
On Wilson and Saint-Maximin playing as a two: “It just gives them freedom, doesn’t it,” said Richards. “Sometimes when Saint-Maximin is in wide positions, going forward we all know what he can do.
“He is unpredictable. He has got really good feet. Very skilful. But sometimes when you get caught in the wide positions, you have to do more defensive work – that’s what he brings to Newcastle, he brings excitement.
“I remember speaking to Patrick Vieira when he was Nice. He just talked him up. He said that he has absolutely everything.
“Since he has gone to Newcastle. He just needs to show it consistently and remain injury-free.”
The fearless nature in which Saint-Maximin plays the game puts fear into the eyes of the opposition.
Wherever he is on the field of play, the Frenchman has the drive, speed, box of tricks and ball-carrying ability to go past any midfielder or defender.
Saint-Maximin might frustrate supporters with his inconsistencies and lack of end product, but it still makes him a dangerous customer to deal with in England’s top-flight.
Albeit Newcastle blew a lead on two occasions, he showcased that over the weekend against West Ham and he will be looking to do the same against Aston Villa this Saturday.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
