Newcastle striker Callum Wilson faces an injury setback as he undergoes chest surgery, potentially sidelining him for a significant period.
Newcastle United forward Callum Wilson is set for an extended period out of action after undergoing chest surgery due to a pectoral muscle injury sustained during the team’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest.
The injury compounds Wilson’s struggles with fitness this season, which have included setbacks with hamstring and calf issues. Manager Eddie Howe expressed disappointment at the blow, acknowledging Wilson’s importance to the team and expressing hope for his return before the conclusion of the season.
“It is no doubt a big blow for him,” said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. “It’s been a stop-start season for him. We hope he’s back before the end of the season. It was a strange injury. He got in a tussle with the centre-back at the end of the last match,” said Howe. We had it scanned and hoped initially he could continue, but when he went to see a specialist I think it was apparent quite early that he needed it operating on.”
Wilson managed to complete the game against Nottingham Forest, but he fashioned a makeshift sling with his shirt at full-time, indicating the severity of his injury. Despite initial hopes that Wilson could continue playing without surgery, a specialist recommended the operation after further assessment.
Newcastle, currently sitting in seventh place in the Premier League table, face the challenge of coping without Wilson for the remainder of the campaign, which includes 14 more fixtures before the season’s end in May. Wilson’s absence will be keenly felt, given his contribution of eight goals in 22 appearances across all competitions this season.
Furthermore, Wilson’s injury poses a setback for his international aspirations with England. The 31-year-old forward was part of the England squad that secured a victory over Scotland in a friendly match in September. With friendlies against Brazil and Belgium scheduled for the upcoming international break, Wilson’s availability for Euro 2024 remains uncertain, adding to the disappointment of his injury setback.
In the midst of Wilson’s injury woes, Newcastle also faces uncertainty surrounding the future of sporting director Dan Ashworth. Reports suggest that Manchester United has shown interest in Ashworth for a similar role at Old Trafford.
Howe expressed the desire for a swift resolution to the situation, highlighting the unusual circumstances and the need for clarity amidst ongoing speculation about Ashworth’s potential departure.
As of now, Newcastle has received no formal contact regarding Ashworth’s potential move, leaving the situation unresolved and adding another layer of complexity to the club’s current challenges.
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