Allan Saint-Maximin has paid tribute to the 'real heroes' of Newcastle - the NHS staff who have worked throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Newcastle United winger has donated dozens of packages to staff at hospitals run by the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - as well as penning a heartfelt tribute to them within the boxes of gifts he's donated.
Speaking to the NUFC Foundation who helped Saint-Maximin deliver his packages, he said: "We are in an incredibly fortunate situation as footballers as we know we are very privileged.
“The work the NHS staff and key workers at places like food banks have been doing here is inspirational and it makes you want to help as much as possible.
“I would like to thank everyone for all of their amazing work and to celebrate the real heroes of my city. These guys are all incredible and they are doing a wonderful job.”
Saint-Maximin is a fan favourite on Tyneside due to his interaction with fans and this gesture will only go to cement his place among supporters.
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust chief executive, Dame Jackie Daniel, said: “It’s been a very tough and challenging year for our staff, but the level of gratitude and support we have received from our patients, the public and local businesses – both to the Trust and to Newcastle Hospitals Charity – has been truly remarkable and really helped to pull us through this pandemic.
“These care packages are a lovely gesture from Allan Saint-Maximin and our thanks go to him and to Newcastle United Foundation, whose incredible work makes such a difference in local communities.”
