ALLAN SAINT-MAXIMIN has challenged Newcastle to qualify for Europe if they want to keep him.
The dazzling winger caught the eye last season after arriving from Nice for £16.5million – leading to fears he could be prized away this summer.
Allan Saint-Maximin has warned Newcastle he could leave if they don’t reach EuropeCredit: Reuters
Saint-Maximin has started this season in a similar vein, scoring a stunner as the Mags beat Burnley 3-1 last time out.
He signed a six-year contract for around just £36,000-a-week – and is yet to improve his terms.
And while leaving the door open to a long-term stay on Tyneside, the 23-year-old is desperate to play in Europe.
He said: “For my part, everything will depend on this development.
“If the club is developing well and it is in line with my desires, staying is a possibility.
“Afterwards, if things don’t turn out like that, obviously the question of leaving will arise.
“Being able to play in Europe and the Europa League would be really great. The Champions League is a big dream, every footballer wants to play it.”
Saint-Maximin won seven caps for France U21s but is yet to be called up by the senior side.
But he hopes to catch coach Didier Deschamp’s by firing the Toon up the table.
Asked by sport.fr if playing for Newcastle is a disadvantage, he added: “Disadvantage, I wouldn’t say that, but for sure if you play in Manchester, Liverpool, Chelsea… it’s easier to have access to the French team.
“After that we are in the biggest championship in the world, so if we manage to end up in the top 10, there will also be an advantage thanks to the reputation of the PL.
“It’s up to me to perform, but in all honesty, it’s in the back of my mind right now, but I don’t think about it.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
