Eddie Howe talks Newcastle star Allan Saint-Maximin

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Eddie Howe has told Sky Sports he is delighted to be working with Allan Saint-Maximin – and spoke about his “response” over the last two days.

Saint-Maximin, 24, has already proved his worth this season despite Newcastle’s poor start – having a hand in five goals in 11 league games.

The winger is certainly in with a shout of breaking into France’s 2022 World Cup squad – and he will be hoping Howe gives him the platform to do that.

Howe has had the chance to work with the ex-Nice winger over the last two days, with Saint-Maximin seen in clips of Howe coaching his new side.

Speaking to SSN – as per Football Daily – Howe raved about “Maxi”, discussed getting the best out of him, and his reaction over the two days.

“I’m really pleased to be working with Maxi,” Howe said. “I think he is a very, very unique talent. A game winner, a match winner.

“A real difference-maker for us. First and foremost, we have to find a way to function as a team to get the best out of him. But he also has to contribute.

“Two things go hand in hand. I’m really excited to try and figure out ways to get him to play at his best. His response in the two days has been excellent.”

Howe on Saint-Maximin: How can he get best out of Newcastle sensation?

Typically old school, Steve Bruce chucked Saint-Maximin up top. It worked to a degree, but it is not playing to the Frenchman’s strengths.

Indeed, Saint-Maximin is a player that prefers to play on the left – start his runs from deep and arrive in the final third at full pelt.

His end product is improving. But what can Howe do differently to Bruce in getting the best out of Saint-Maximin? Well, simply, attacking football.

Bruce stifled Saint-Maximin by playing defensively. Loosening the shackles on Saint-Maximin will give him the chance to score and create more.