Upon arrival, Callum Wilson made no secret of why he chose to join Newcastle United. A catastrophic relegation under Eddie Howe in 2020 meant Bournemouth’s five-year stint in the Premier League was over. With his England place under threat, the former Cherries man had to move on.
After completing his £20million switch to the Magpies, the striker said: “For me, the long-term goal is to try and get into the European Championship squad which is why I wanted to take this opportunity to come back to the Premier League.
“I’ve left a lot of friends behind in Bournemouth but, with the Euros coming up, I definitely feel I need to hit the ground running and, ultimately, that will hopefully lead to me getting back into the England squad."
Wilson has, at times, displayed the kind of form capable of regaining his place in Gareth Southgate’s setup. The difference United’s number nine made after returning from a torn calf at the backend of last season reminded everyone of the goal-hungry finisher’s talents. However, his injury record is a genuine cause for concern.
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In his two seasons on Tyneside, Wilson has missed 32 Premier League games - almost an entire season - due to injury. Goalscoring has never been an issue for the 30-year-old. In fact, his 20 goals in 44 outings looks more commendable considering the Magpies’ poor creative spark. Newcastle created just 42 clear-cut chances in his debut season, the 13th-highest in the division. Surprisingly, that tally was less in 2021-22 at 34 - putting Howe’s side 18th.
Playing in an improved side - which is almost guaranteed given the anticipated summer spending spree - could unleash Wilson’s true potential. Providing he stays fit, there is no reason why he cannot replicate what Danny Ings, Patrick Bamford or Dominic Calvert-Lewin have done in recent seasons to force his way into the England squad.
Aside from Harry Kane, the Three Lions lack an undisputed backup option should the England captain get injured. Tammy Abraham did not take his opportunity in the recent international break and the three aforementioned names failed to set the world alight last season.
In 2019/20, Ings bagged 22 goals for Southampton to wedge his way into the international picture. Likewise, Bamford netted 17 times for an electrifying Leeds United side two years ago, a feat that earned him his solitary England cap. The window of opportunity is ajar for one English striker - and there is no reason why Wilson cannot stake his claim.
A prolific, injury-free season akin to his rivals’ from yesteryear would put the Toon number nine in the mix. Getting Wilson firing on all cylinders could prove the difference between Newcastle nicking a European spot or failing at the final hurdle. Another positive omen is Howe being the manager who knows him best, with the duo set to embark on their eighth season together.
The stage finally looks set for Wilson to achieve the England goal he outlined two years ago. Over to you, Callum.
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