An update has emerged regarding Newcastle United duo Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin ahead of the club’s Premier League clash against Liverpool this evening.
What’s the latest on Newcastle’s injury situation?
Magpies boss Eddie Howe has confirmed that both players are fit and available for selection against the Reds at St James’ Park after suffering injuries against Bournemouth last time out.
They were both substituted in the draw against the Cherries but the manager revealed in his pre-match press conference on Friday that they are already back in training.
The Northern Echo‘s Scott Wilson relayed the updates from the 45-year-old on Friday morning, tweeting: “Joe Willock won’t feature against Liverpool – but the #NUFC midfielder is winning his battle to be fit for the Carabao Cup final. Miguel Almiron and ASM back in full training and okay. Callum Wilson set to train today – but big doubt for Liverpool…”
How big a boost could that be for Newcastle?
Howe may have been left fearing the worst when Almiron and Saint-Maximin hobbled off against Bournemouth last weekend, and he will surely be delighted by their availability this weekend.
Not only does it mean that they will be able to face Liverpool, but the lack of a serious blow for either of them means that, barring any issues against the Reds, they should also be able to play in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United next week.
Having Almiron available for the clash against Jurgen Klopp’s side will be a huge boost for Howe and Newcastle, as the winger has been in phenomenal form in the Premier League this season.
The former MLS star has plundered ten goals and one assist in 22 top-flight appearances, averaging a Sofascore rating of 7.15. Only two outfield players have averaged a higher Sofascore rating in the league for the Magpies in 2022/23 and no player has scored as many goals as the Paraguayan.
In fact, with Wilson potentially out of action today, Almiron could be the only Newcastle player with more than three Premier League goals this season available for selection against Liverpool, which is why having him fit will be a big relief for this manager.
Saint-Maximin’s fitness is also a boost for the Toon, as the French winger has the potential to be a match-winner on his day. He has only started six matches in the league this term but has provided one goal and three assists in that time, having managing five goals and five assists in 2021/22.
Should Almiron and Saint-Maximin start?
Yes
No
Only Kieran Trippier (four) has set up more goals than the Frenchman for Newcastle this season, while no Magpies player matched the 25-year-old’s tally of five assists last term.
Therefore, both players have the ability to provide excellent quality in the final third, either by scoring goals or creating them, and having their talents available for the clash against Liverpool should be a huge boost for Howe.
