Speaking to the press this morning, Eddie Howe has revealed that Callum Wilson is a doubt for tomorrow’s clash with Chelsea.
He’s revealed that the striker has trained away from the group this week after a period of illness, which saw him taken off at half-time in last weekend’s win over Southampton.
Howe will make a late decision on the 30-year-old, who was named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man England squad just yesterday, beating Ivan Toney and Tammy Abraham to a place on the plane.
On that call up, the Toon boss has talked up our number nine’s ability to “actually deliver” on his promises, revealing how he vowed to “come back better” after his injury earlier this year.
Howe has also discussed his delight at Kieran Trippier, Nick Pope, Bruno Guimaraes, Fabian Schar and Garang Kuol being selected for the World Cup in Qatar – although it’s believed Sven Botman has missed out on the Netherlands squad.
As for the Carabao Cup, Howe was delighted with another home draw ahead of our last 16 clash with Bournemouth, but insists his former club will give us a “difficult game.”
Here’s what Howe had to say on all of the above just moments ago.
Howe on Callum Wilson’s fitness for Chelsea:
“We’ll wait and see.
“He’s been training separately from the group. He had an illness, so he’s been away from the group.
“He’s been working well, but I need to make a decision on whether he’s fit enough to play.”
Howe on Callum Wilson’s England call up:
“It’s an amazing thing for him individually and for his family.
“Callum has had a difficult career; he’s risen from the lower leagues to the Premier League and now to the national squad. It’s been through dedication, positive mindset and work rate.
“When he got injured, his first instinct was always, ‘I’m going to come back better’ and then he put the work in to come back better so it’s not just talk with Callum. He actually delivers.
“I think he’s done it in the right way. He’s scored goals and his contributed to us [Newcastle] and he’s got rewarded for that.”
Howe on our six World Cup call ups so far:
“I think it’s great for us. We’re really proud of our international players.
“We try and provide a place where players can excel and do well and hopefully get called up for their international teams. Delighted for all concerned.”
Howe on the Carabao Cup draw vs Bournemouth:
“It’s crazy how things unfold. I was watching it live.
“Yeah, that’s football for you. The draws always spark up games of real interest. Really good to be at home. It’ll be a difficult game.”
