Newcastle’s Callum Wilson getting closer to returning

Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has resumed first-team training after a prolonged absence due to a pectoral injury and he’s expected back on the pitch before the season is over, according to Chris Waugh of The Athletic.

Wilson, 32, suffered the injury during the game played at Nottingham Forest on February 10, more than two months ago. He’s been out since then, and he left the field visibly injured as he savagely built a makeshift sling to wrap his arm as soon as possible right there on the grass.

Following surgery in February, the forward was expected to be sidelined for around 12 weeks. That timeline is seemingly correct (and perhaps a bit cautious) according to the latest reports, and after missing 10 games across all competitions Wilson should make his return soon if all goes according to plan.

Manager Eddie Howe said a few days ago that Wilson has been working individually on the training ground for several weeks, but the gaffer added that Wilson has recently begun participating in team training sessions again.

“He’s looking good, he’s doing the hard yards, running hard,” Howe said. “He’s able to keep very fit and build his strength. I anticipate when he comes back he’ll be looking really good.”

Wilson’s potential return would definitely help Newcastle if only by adding a warm body to the fold on the forward line. The Magpies, all of a sudden, are back in the fight for a sweet European competition-bound place in the Premier League currently sitting in sixth position.

Not only would Wilson—on a personal basis—like to help his team, but he’d most definitely be interested in making his comeback ahead of the final roster call made by England’s manager Gareth Southgate for the Euro 2024 scheduled for June and July this summer.

There is still a bit of time for Wilson to do that as NUFC have six matches left in their schedule before wrapping up the season.

Alexander Isak has stepped up in Callum’s absence and smoothly taken his place on the frontline of the Magpies offense—in case there was still any doubt—scoring seven goals in his last six EPL matches.

Wilson could potentially rejoin the squad for the upcoming match against Crystal Palace on April 24, although having spent more than two months on the shelves he shouldn’t be expected to play a lot of minutes in his first game back.