In a recent interview with Goodison News, Kevin Campbell urged Everton to move in for Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin. Campbell said,
“He’s (Saint-Maximin) had his injury problems but he’s an exciting player. He’s a match-winner, a match-winner on his own.
“He suffered a bit at Newcastle because they are just so consistently good last season, but even when he did play he still did well.
“He’s a player who obviously can play anywhere across the front as well, so he could be somebody who Everton might covet to bring in.
“But again it’s going to come down to money because he’s not going to be cheap.”
Saint-Maximin’s Limited Role At St. James’ Park Last Season
Saint-Maximin had an inconsistent campaign at the Tyneside club recently as he struggled to be productive for them in the final third. The French wing wizard made 31 appearances for the Magpies last season, netting one goal and securing five assists in all competitions.
The 26-year-old saw a lot of his game time come off the bench but performed well to average 1.1 shots, 1.2 key passes and 2.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he needs to improve his ball distribution after he completed just 75.1% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Will Saint-Maximin Bring To Everton?
Saint-Maximin can use his quickness to make a handful of dangerous runs with the ball out in the wide areas. He has got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third and can strike the ball with power from long range. However, the French sensation has to find a way to be more decisive in front of the opponent’s goal.
Saint-Maximin is primarily a left-sided wide player but can fill in as a right-winger or play in the number ten position if needed. He is definitely good enough to earn a regular starting spot in Everton boss Sean Dyche’s first XI next season.
Saint-Maximin will bring a lot of pace to the Merseyside club‘s frontline. At 26, the Frenchman is about to enter his peak which makes him a worthy target for Dyche this summer. He might even help the Toffees stay out of relegation trouble in Premier League football over the next few years.
