Newcastle fans were full of praise for Allan Saint-Maximin on Tuesday night as the Frenchman played an influential role in helping his side beat Oxford United.
The Magpies went 2-0 up but were forced into extra-time after the hosts fought back to score a dramatic late equaliser.
However, the former Nice winger was on hand to send Newcastle into the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Saint-Maximin initially didn’t start the game but came on for Joelinton after just 37 minutes. Although his impact was limited for large parts, he produced the goods when it mattered.
His goal was a sumptuous one, showing remarkably quick feet to take the ball away from several defenders before finding the back of the net from the edge of the area.
It was a superb strike and the Frenchman rightly earned plaudits on Twitter.
Earning a comparison to a certain David Ginola sums up the canny 22-year-old whose dribbling ability is up there with the most mesmerising in the Premier League – so far this term, he’s completed 4.4 dribbles per game.
To see it in action against League One opposition was bordering on insulting as he showed outrageous trickery with the clock running down to beat three players with a bunny hop and then a flick by the corner flag.
For away day veterans only: Can you name all of these defunct stadiums?
It was that aspect of his game, alongside his balance that drew further praise as some supporters were left dazzled by the winger.
Newcastle fans had a list of superlatives for the player throughout the 90 minutes, as one took to his skills and ability by describing the forward as a “cat in a fish tank”.
A further supporter wanted him to be given the keys to Newcastle for his efforts on the night. Judging by his goal and the sensational piece of skill he showed in the final moments of extra-time, it’s hardly a surprise.
Given Newcastle’s poor form in front of goal this term – their forwards have scored a combined three strikes – claims that he is their only hope are unsurprising.
Meanwhile, some Newcastle fans have come out with a rather surprising alternative to Joelinton…
