Callum Wilson is nearing a return from injury, Eddie Howe has confirmed.
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Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth further underlined Newcastle’s lack of attacking invention. While Alexander Isak scored his second goal in three games from the penalty spot, Eddie Howe saw his side take 20 shots – seven of which were on target – but struggle to breakdown a stubborn defence.
While an improvement is needed, injuries have not helped. Bruno Guimaraes has just returned while Allan Saint-Maximin and Wilson have missed three and four Premier League games respectively as a result of hamstring problems.
Clearly, having them both back to operate alongside Alexander Isak is a hugely exciting prospect. On paper at least, that has all the makings of an exciting front three.
What’s the latest on Wilson?
Speaking after Saturday’s game, Howe said (via the Shields Gazette): “Callum’s doing very well. We’re really pleased with his progress. He was close, but I think we made an early decision that it would have been too big a risk [to play against Bournemouth].
“So, we hope that with a bit more time, there’s a chance that the next game could be good for him.”
Can Isak and Wilson play together?
Given Wilson’s importance under Howe at Bournemouth and Newcastle, it’s hard to imagine the striker not getting into the starting XI.
Newcastle’s most reliable source of goals since his arrival in 2020, the idea of leaving Wilson on the bench would seem strange and Isak does have experience of playing on the wing, albeit not a huge amount of it.
Upon the Sweden international’s arrival at St James’ Park, European football expert Andy Brassell hinted Isak would be able to play off a central striker.
“He’s a good creator, he’s good on the ball, he’ll get behind teams and make goals for his teammates,” he told The Football Ramble’s On the Continent Podcast.
