Allan Saint-Maximin caused a real stir amongst supporters when he said in an interview with French football magazine, SO FOOT, that he would have more assists if he had team mates capable of finishing chances. Although, Eddie Howe was quick to back up the wideman in his press conference ahead of the Manchester City clash.
Eddie Howe said: “In no way did he mean to damage the team and the unity we’ve built – it wasn’t in the context that he meant. Ideally I would not want any of my players speaking about anything other than themselves and their own careers. I don’t think players need to talk about other players or players from other clubs. It is all about our club. It is about protecting the team and everything we do: giving off united and positive messages even in difficult moments, and that can be tough. But that is my ideal and what I want my team to do. I have no concerns over his mood. I don’t think I will be fining him about that situation, it is more a case of education and making sure players know what we expect of them.”