Callum Wilson is unlikely to feature in Newcastle’s busy three-game week after feeling a muscle tightness, with the club keen for the striker to return in the best possible condition.
It was hoped the 32-year-old would be on the bench for Sunday’s trip to Chelsea after recovering from a back injury suffered in the summer, an issue that also affected his hamstring. He last played in May.
However, Mail Sport understands that a muscle tightness will almost certainly keep him out of the game at Stamford Bridge, as well as the Carabao Cup tie against the same opposition on Wednesday and next Saturday’s visit of Arsenal.
Newcastle want to be sure that when Wilson does return he is given the best chance of staying fit, but his extended absence is undoubtedly a blow for the player and Eddie Howe.
The head coach has been without Wilson all season and, when Alexander Isak missed two Premier League matches with a broken toe recently, it was winger Anthony Gordon who had to deputise at centre-forward.
Callum Wilson's return from injury is set to be delayed due to muscle tightness
It has seen the Magpies score only two penalties in nearly seven hours of football and, despite an improvement in performances, the last four games have yielded just two points.
The good news is that Isak has benefited from another full week of training after returning for last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat by Brighton, while Gordon’s condition also continues to improve after a summer spent with England and a late return to pre-season.