World Cup-bound Callum Wilson faces race to be fit for Newcastle-Chelsea clash

NEWCASTLE: Eddie Howe has revealed Callum Wilson faces a late fitness test ahead of the visit of Chelsea to Tyneside. The Newcastle United frontman — called up to Gareth Southgate’s England World Cup squad this week — was withdrawn halfway through the 4-1 win at Southampton last weekend due to illness, and was absent altogether from the Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace in midweek. “We’ll wait and see,” said head coach Howe when asked whether the No.9 will be fit to face Champions League rivals, the Blues.

“He’s been training separately from the group this week. 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 or not he’s fit enough to play.” Wilson’s absence would likely mean another start for experienced New Zealander Chris Wood, with record signing Alexander Isak still sidelined.

Howe has expressed his delight at Wilson’s first international call-up since 2019, which predates his Newcastle transfer. “It’s an amazing thing for him individually and for his family,” said Howe. “Callum’s had a difficult career, it’s not always been about the successes.

It’s not always been about the successes and he’s risen from the lower league to the Premier League and now to the World Cup. “It’s been a brilliant thing to witness first-hand for me and then when you see how it’s been achieved, it’s been through dedication and consistency to his work and a really positive mindset. “When he got injured, his first instinct was ‘I’m going to come back better’.

It’s not just talking with Callum, he actually delivers. He’s got a way of scoring goals, so I’m delighted for him. I hope he can make a real impact.” While Wilson was a bit of a surprise Southgate inclusion in the