French critic makes u-turn, admits Super Eagles star’s performance has been ‘very good’

The one-cap Nigeria international is reshaping opinions with his positive displays in the southwestern part of France

French football pundit Laurent Brun has backed down on his criticism of Girondins de Bordeaux striker Josh Maja following the Nigerian star’s recent decent performances.

Brun was one of Maja’s harshest critics last month, even as Bordeaux enjoyed a brilliant start to the season.

Maja had featured prominently as Les Girondins won two and drew one of their first three games this term.

But French analyst Brun took a swipe at Maja shortly after the former Sunderland forward provided the assist for Bordeaux’s winning goal against Niort on August 13.

The football pundit slammed the Super Eagles star for making Bordeaux play as though they were with ten men on the pitch.

Maja, though, responded with impressive performances for David Guion’s men.

The 23-year-old scored one and laid another two assists as Bordeaux crushed Quevilly 4-0 on August 30.

And Maja was at it again last weekend as he grabbed all of Bordeaux’s goals in the 3-1 win away to Paris FC.

The youngster’s recent displays have caused Laurent Brun to have a change of heart, as the pundit now sees the Nigeria international as one of Bordeaux’s finest.

“He was already better in the last match, even if he had already delivered assists since the start of the season,” Brun said on ARL, as per Girondins4ever.

“Afterwards, we know that he has talent and quality in his register, that is to say, in the last 15 or 20 meters. He is very skilful with his shots and his set pieces.

“Before, he didn’t do enough in the games, and he wasn’t available enough for his teammates.

“Now, maybe the trend is reversing, and so much the better. (Against Paris FC) he had a very good match, and it must be said.

“I have no problem with that; I have no problem with Josh Maja, quite the contrary. But maybe after this hat trick, he will find a cruising rhythm, and that’s very good.”

With four goals in eight matches, Josh Maja is Bordeaux’s leading goalscorer in the Ligue 2 this term. And the number 33 will hope he can maintain his form to help power Les Girondins push for instant promotion back to Ligue 1.