Allan Saint-Maximin says he has "no need to be jealous of Sadio Mane" and his ability

Allan Saint-Maximin has claimed he has no reason to be "jealous" of Liverpool star Sadio Mane and his ability.

The Newcastle star has reportedly been growing increasingly frustrated with life at St James' Park, despite Eddie Howe's men going on a remarkable winning run. They have lost just four of their last 17 games to pull away from the relegation zone and break into the top half of the Premier League.

Saint-Maximin has been a key player in that run, with the Frenchman frequently the Magpies' most threatening player. But while he has looked like their most creative force, Saint-Maximin's return in front of goal has been poor this season.

He has scored just five goals and registered only four assists in his 38 appearances in all competitions, though that is an improvement on last year. Even so, he is reportedly looking for an exit from the Magpies to join a team with better quality in forward areas.

Comparisons have been drawn between Saint-Maximim and Liverpool star Mane. The Senegal international has enjoyed another successful for the Reds, scoring 21 goals in all competitions.

He has helped to fire Jurgen Klopp's men on a run towards what would be a historic quadruple of trophy wins. Mane's differing fortunes compared to Saint-Maximin has led some to question if the Newcastle star might be jealous of the Liverpool man.

But that is an accusation that Saint-Maximin has now hit back at, as the summer transfer window approaches. He has insisted that he would be able to match Mane's goal return, if he was in a team with better quality.

"Those who have played with me know very well that in terms of pure quality, I have nothing to envy to Sadio Mané. The day when I have a player capable of finishing the actions, I