Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has told Le Media Carre that Newcastle United attacker Allan Saint-Maximin is the player with the most technique in the Premier League – claiming the Frenchman is able to past anyone.
Saint-Maximin, 25, has endured an up-and-down start to the season. Newcastle’s no.10 impressed in his first four Premier League matches, scoring a delicious volley against Wolves – and laying on two assists against Manchester City.
But he then picked up a hamstring issue and was sidelined for the next four league games. He made his return off the bench during Newcastle’s 5-1 win over Brentford. A game in which Bruno Guimaraes scored twice for Eddie Howe.
Asked to pick the player with the most technique in the Premier League, Meslier picked his fellow countryman Saint-Maximin: “Very strong. Very, very strong. He impresses me. In one on ones, I think he passes everyone.”
Meslier: Newcastle attacker Saint-Maximin able to go past anyone
It is big praise from Meslier to brand Saint-Maximin as the player with the most technique in the Premier League. But he is hardly wrong, Saint-Maximin is the kind of player that can create magic from absolutely nothing.
He is beginning to add an end product to all the flair, speed and trickery. This season, he has three goal involvements in five Premier League games. It has been a criticism of the no.10 in recent seasons, but that could change this term.
Little surprise, that in the summer, Media Foot said Manchester United wanted to sign the uncapped Frenchman. The Northern Echo have also suggested Tottenham and Chelsea have considered Saint-Maximin. He is hugely exciting.
A Newcastle fan favourite, the Toon will be desperate to keep him but given the player he is, Saint-Maximin might be tempted with a move to a big club. But Newcastle’s cash might just give him what he wants, in terms of ambition.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
