Allan Saint-Maximin has admitted he had the opportunity to leave Newcastle United in January but the club wanted him to stay.
The Magpies have shown tremendous improvement since the arrival of Eddie Howe but his arrival has also coincided with the dip in form of the Frenchman.
The 26-year-old has dropped out of his fitness due to injuries this season and is struggling to adapt to the English boss' system.
However, despite the winger's not-really-remarkable form this campaign, the club decided to keep him at St. James’ Park, rejecting the several offers the player got in the winter transfer window.
Speaking via Sky Sport (quoted by CaughtOffside), Saint-Maximin confessed:
“I had the opportunity to go to another club in January — but the club said they want me to stay and that I’m important".
“When you feel that the club, the manager and every single person in Newcastle wants you then of course you want to stay."
“I haven’t played as much this season because the team was doing so well when I was injured, but I’m happy to fight for my place. I’m more mature now than when I joined the club 3-and-half years ago and I’m ready for everything.”