Chris Waddle predicts entertaining ‘hit and miss’ season from Saint-Maximin at Newcastle

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The BBC pundit watched the new signing in action for Newcastle against Arsenal on Sunday.

BBC pundit Chris Waddle has delivered an initial verdict on Allan Saint-Maximin after watching him in action for Newcastle United at the weekend, predicting a roller-coaster season from the summer signing (Live match page 11/08, 16:03).

The 22-year-old came off the bench midway through the second half against Arsenal, entertaining home supporters with some electric pace and ability on the ball.

After making a reported £16.5m move (BBC) from French club Nice earlier this month, there’s a bit of pressure on his shoulders to deliver an attacking impact at St James’ Park.

His first appearance, if nothing else, demonstrates he’ll have no fear in taking on the challenges ahead in the Premier League.

Former Newcastle player Waddle reckons the fans will love him, even if he is not the most consistent of talents.

As quoted by the BBC (live match page 11/08/ 16:03), the radio pundit said: “On his day he’s great and then the week after you’ll want to get him off the pitch.

“Fans love that here in Newcastle.

“He didn’t have that much of an impact today and I think he will be a bit hit and miss this season but you can see the fans are going to love him.

Having a shot on goal, completing two dribbles and all of his passes against the Gunners (WhoScored), it was a confident start from the 22-year-old, who will be hoping to add a more cutting final ball to his game over the coming weeks and months.

Last season in France he scored six goals and assisted five times in Ligue 1 (Transfermarkt), an offering that would go down a treat on the flanks for the Magpies this term.

If he can back up his crowd-pleasing flamboyance and personality with regular direct goal contributions then there’s no doubt that Waddle will be correct about his developing relationship with supporters, even if he does have some bad days.