CALLUM IS READY FOR CALL
EDDIE HOWE has backed Callum Wilson to get back to his best after recovering from a “difficult” injury.
The England striker is in contention to face Manchester City today after missing Newcastle’s recent revival.
Wilson broke down against Manchester United at the end of December and has missed 17 games, including 10 wins, and is desperate to get back among the goals.
Howe regards him as a key member of his top team, but Wilson will come under pressure in the summer with Toon expected to sign a new lead striker, as well as having £25million January recruit Chris Wood (below) challenging.
Wilson has six goals this season and remains United’s leading scorer, one ahead of Allan Saint-Maximin, despite playing only 15 games.
Howe says WIlson has got his bounce back, adding: “He has reacted well, his injury was very difficult at that time in the season, but he is strong, resilient and has come back with a bounce, so I am delighted for him.
“Callum has trained all week, I am really pleased with him. He has trained very well and had two really tough days and has come through excellently and looks very good.
“He has done a lot of work to get to this point.
“I am pleased with his attitude and there is a good chance he could be involved.”
Wilson has been injury-prone and Howe wants him in full flow in pre-season, adding: “I would say that’s going to be a challenge for him and for us to find a way of working that keeps him in prime physical condition.
“We have been pleasantly surprised at how physically good he’s looked, but that’s going to be a lot of work from all of us connected with the coaching team, the medical staff and the sportsscience staff to find a way to keep all of our players fit throughout the season.
“A big part of that is a very good pre-season because players need a good load behind them to make them resilient and strong.
“You must get the balance right because, if you go too high or low, then you risk injuries both ways, so trying to find that optimum spot goes a long way for your whole squad trying to stay fit through a tough Premier League campaign.”