New Newcastle United transfer dilemma after 'backwards step'
Newcastle United have transfer and contract decisions to make after losing Callum Wilson to another injury.
Callum Wilson has an infectious personality. The Newcastle United striker is almost always smiling around the club – and out in the community.
Wilson even stepped in to run the line at a kids' football game earlier this season, but he has not been able to fly the flag often for his club this year.
The 32-year-old has had little to smile about in his professional life over the past 12 months.
And Wilson – who had returned from a long-term injury late last month – is facing a two-month spell out with a “serious” hamstring problem, according to the Daily Mail.
Wilson reportedly felt his hamstring after coming off the bench in last weekend’s 4-2 defeat to Brentford.
And he confirmed the “step backwards” today in a social media post.
“Despite all the hard work I’ve put in pushing to get back to full fitness, I need to take a little step backwards unfortunately guys.
“Frustrating as it is for everyone out there waiting for my return and to be able to help the team, these shortcomings also upset and frustrate me more than anybody else.
“I will, and I am doing everything in my power to rediscover the best version of myself and finally get off this emotional rollercoaster, which I’m hoping 2025 will bring.
“Appreciate the patience, love and support from all those closest that know how hard I really work and how professional I always am. Callum.”
Wilson’s absence will leave Howe, reliant on Alexander Isak, short of options up front, though winger Anthony Gordon can also play through the middle along with 21-year-old William Osula, signed from Sheffield United in the summer.
And the club, looking for a right winger, may yet have to change its plans for next month’s transfer window, though January isn’t a great time to find an experienced and capable striker.
Quality signing
I’ll be honest, I hadn’t realised just how good Wilson, signed from Bournemouth for £20million in 2020, was until I saw him playing for United.
I remember first meeting Wilson at a media day that summer.
Typically, he was all smiles when he sat down to talk at the club’s indoor barn, and it was clear that he was also relaxed about the prospect of leading the line for a fanbase has long cherished the club’s No.9s.
It is a heavy shirt to wear, but Wilson comfortably took that responsibility his shoulders, bringing goals to Newcastle. He is a complete striker, a natural finisher and fierce competitor on the field. Off the pitch, he’s a big character in the dressing room.
Speaking late last year, Howe said: “He's a big character in the group. He always had a very good outlook on life and football. He’s a really positive guy.”
That positive outlook has been tested at times at Newcastle, as it had been at Bournemouth, where he also played under Howe, by a series of long-term injuries.
Wilson has only made 10 appearances, and scored two goals, this calendar year. This season, he has played just 57 minutes of Premier League football.
Howe suggested ahead of Wilson’s comeback that the England international, out of contract at the end of the season, could yet earn a new deal at St James’ Park.
The club’s head coach said: “Is there a scenario where Callum could stay beyond his current deal? Of course there is.
“Callum’s got outstanding qualities. I know everyone in football has short memories, but you look at what Callum has done since I’ve been here. When he’s been on the pitch, he’s been incredible.”
The problem is that Wilson hasn’t been in the team nearly enough over the past 12 months.
Wilson is good to have around the place, but even better to have on the pitch.
And Newcastle, vulnerable to further injuries to attacking players, need another striker – arguably sooner rather than later – whatever the decision on Wilson’s future beyond the end of the season.