Injury specialist Ben Dinnery has claimed that Newcastle United’s Allan Saint-Maximin has suffered a ‘setback’ in his recovery from a hamstring problem.

The 25-year-old has been unavailable ever since scoring a dramatic equaliser in Newcastle’s 1-1 draw at Wolves in late August. He hobbled off in the dying embers of that game, with it later confirmed that he had sustained an injury to his hamstring.

The Frenchman was thought to be in line for a return against Bournemouth last weekend but his rehabilitation hasn’t gone according to plan.

Saint-Maximin injury latest

Speaking on his Premier FPL Injuries YouTube channel about Saint-Maximin, Dinnery said: “Unfortunately he’s suffered a slight setback in his recovery from a hamstring problem. That’s the same hamstring injury that he suffered against Wolves.

“Now Eddie Howe wouldn’t give any guarantees on whether the French winger would be back in time for gameweek nine. That remains to be seen.”

Setback for Newcastle

Without a league win since the opening weekend, Eddie Howe could certainly do with having one of his star men available.

Prior to his injury, Saint-Maximin seemed to be at his scintillating best, notching two assists and winning a free-kick which was scored by Kieran Trippier in the 3-3 draw against Manchester City a month ago.

He has been the most consistent performer at St James’ Park so far this term with a 7.53 average match rating (SofaScore) and also ranks first for goal involvements per 90 minutes among Howe’s squad.

The Toon travel to take on Fulham on 1 October upon their return to action following the international break, but whether Saint-Maximin is involved remains to be seen.

Considering the ‘disappointing’ result that Newcastle endured against Bournemouth last Saturday, it would be another kick in the teeth for Howe if his star winger hasn’t recovered in time to feature at Craven Cottage.