WIEDERSEHEN SWEAT

Callum wants the trip from Newcastle to Germany this summer... but after that will the Toon cement his stay or throw in the trowel?

He is a saleable asset that will bank a helpful profit to ease financial limits.

But replacing Wilson will be expensive, and a risk.

Asked whether he will still be at the club beyond the summer, Wilson, understandably, couldn’t give a definitive answer. He would certainly like to stay and play in Europe again next season.

But he may also want the guarantee of an extended deal. And he will have highlevel suitors.

Atletico Madrid and AC Milan were interested in January, and the No.9 may be tempted to a fresh adventure. Manager Howe knows where he stands.

“I want him at the club next season. I will do everything I can to make that happen,” Howe said.

Wilson said outside the team bus at Turf Moor: “The future? Finish the next four games.

“My first thought is finish the season strong and then try to get myself into the tournament in the summer. “Then, I am contracted to Newcastle so will still be back in pre-season.”

Wilson’s goal was followed by others from Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimaraes (above, with Howe at the end) and Alexander Isak before Dara O’shea’s late reply. The Wilson situation is the sort of tough problem the club owners have to resolve as Howe reshapes his squad. But Wilson is on a mission to keep the Toon’s top six position and get to Germany. He said: “It is on my mind. I have to be playing at Newcastle and the rest takes care of itself. I heard after the game that Gareth Southgate was here, and watching as many English players as he can. All you can

BURNLEY NEWCASTLE 47% POSSESSION 53% 5 SHOTS ON TARGET 11 7 SHOTS OFF TARGET 5 425 TOTAL PASSES 478 77% PASSING SUCCESS 79% 4 CORNERS 11 0 OFFSIDE 0 8 FOULS 8 0 CARDS 0 2 2

REF: Anthony Taylor ATT: 21,781

IRISH DAILY STAR, Monday, May 6, 2024 do is perform when you are given an opportunity. Most players have played 50-60 games and to my disappointment I haven’t, but that can only benefit me going into the summer.

“If I get in the squad, fantastic. If not, I will continue my fitness work and won’t waste what I have been working on.

“I would be lying if I said I didn’t have my eye on the last four games and trying to make an impression. That is all you can do.

“There are players who have had fantastic seasons who are English and strikers. It gives the manager an extra dilemma and person to choose from.

“I got an assist in the World Cup. Representing your country is what dreams are made of and it is the pinnacle.

“Realistically it is my last major tournament. I will be 34 for the next one. Who knows, it is fantastic to represent your country.” 5