Newcastle striker Callum Wilson claimed he ‘should be’ in the upcoming England squad for the World Cup. believing his ability to “run in behind” makes him different to Gareth Southgate’s other options.
Nobody has ever doubted Wilson’s ability – he is right up there with England’s current best goalscorers – but his injury struggles have seriously hindered his form and chances of being one the plane to Qatar.
After signing for the Magpies back in 2020, the now 30-year-old has scored 24 in 52 league games and is currently averaging a goal every 170 minutes – putting him just behind Harry Kane on 159.
The forward also has the best conversion rate of any other English striker at 21% beating Kane (15%), Ivan Toney (17%), Tammy Abraham (15%), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (17%) and Marcus Rashford (15%).
Speaking to Sky Sports, here’s what Wilson had to say:
“I don’t doubt my ability whatsoever. I think I offer something different to the other strikers. I don’t think there’s anyone who would run in behind like myself and stretch the game. If you’re a coach you’ll want different kinds of players that can play in different games.
“Harry is an unbelievable player, so that’s not to say ‘you’re going to go to the World Cup and play’ but for me it’s the experience of being there and being able to push Harry and show the manager I’m ready.”
While Kane has been lauded for his playmaking skills and ability to drop deep, Wilson is very much a more typical number nine with a great eye for goal and could definitely offer something different when chasing a game in the dying minutes.
“I’ve been focusing on my Newcastle performances because that’s what will get you in that shop window, not just gold but hold up play and all round performance.
For me there’s that belief there, I’ve represented my country before and the manager knows what I can do. I’m trying to talk and play on the pitch and if that’s good enough then so be it.
“I never doubt my ability and I fully believe in myself that if I carry on staying fit and performing then I should be in the squad.”
