Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin has jumped to the defence of Sadio Mane on Twitter after a Liverpool fan called for the Frenchman to replace the Reds star. 

Saint-Maximin was a thorn in the side of Jurgen Klopp‘s men on Saturday afternoon as the Magpies came from a goal behind with just seconds remaining to earn a 1-1 draw. 

After the damaging loss of points, one Liverpool fan called out the 24-year-old to come back to Anfield whilst Mane heads in the other direction. 

But the Toon sensation was having none of it and called for more respect towards Mane and what the Senegalese forward has achieved during his career on Merseyside. 

Unfortunately for the Reds and their top-four hopes, Mane was one of those culpable for missing a clutch of chances to stretch the early lead given to the hosts by Mohamed Salah. 

The 29-year-old was awarded an average Sofascore rating of 6.9 for his display in the Saturday afternoon sun, whilst Saint-Maximin earned a 7.1 rating. 

READ LIVERPOOL VERDICT

Calls for Mane to leave are undoubtedly premature, despite what has certainly been a dip in form. 

That said, Saint-Maximin would certainly be a worthy squad member for the Reds, who would offer a viable option as understudy to the entire frontline. 

Who Would You Rather Have?

Allan Saint-Maximin

Sadio Mane