Callum Wilson concern as four Newcastle United players ruled out of Chelsea clash

Newcastle United will make a late call on Callum Wilson’s selection against Chelsea. The Magpies striker has been unwell and missed Wednesday’s Carabao Cup penalty shootout win over Crystal Palace.

The 30-year-old started the previous Premier League match at Southampton but did not emerge for the second half and was replaced by Chris Wood. Wood scored to put United 2-0 during the 4-1 win and led the line against Palace in midweek.

Late Callum Wilson call vs Chelsea

Wilson was tipped to return against Chelsea on Saturday evening, however head coach Eddie Howe says he will make a late decision after the former Bournemouth man trained separately from the team this week to prevent him from passing on his illness to others.

“We’ll wait and see,” Howe said. “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.”

It is hoped Wilson will feature against Graham Potter’s side before jetting off to Qatar. Wilson was named in England’s 26-man squad - his first call-up since 2019.

Callum Wilson’s World Cup call-up

“It’s an amazing thing for him individually and for his family,” Howe said. “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 talk 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.”

Asked if the England call-up will play a part in whether will play versus Chelsea, Howe added: “No, I will always look at it purely from Newcastle and the player’s perspective. Can they player give me his best physical effort? Is he able to do that? That is every individual.”

Meanwhile, Alexander Isak, Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett and Emil Krafth remain on the sidelines, while Ryan Fraser is a doubt with a calf problem.