Eddie Howe issues positive Callum Wilson injury update at Newcastle United

Callum Wilson is back in “very light” training at Newcastle United - and Eddie Howe remains hopeful of a return before the end of the season.

The 30-year-old has been out of action since December after injuring his calf during the 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

It was initially thought Wilson would be out for six weeks maximum, however his recovery has been slower than anticipated.

Wilson has been to Dubai and London to receive specialist treatment with the hope of playing a role in the run-in.

And the striker was pictured back at the club’s Benton training ground on Tuesday afternoon as he took part in a squad gym session.

Wilson has taken a positive step in his recovery but Howe admits he still has some way to go.

“His situation hasn’t changed from the update I gave you a few weeks ago,” Howe said.

“He was out on the training pitch yesterday, a very, very light jog but it’s the first time we’ve seen him on the grass which was great.

“Whenever a player returns from an injury and you see them on the grass in their training kit, it’s a great thing to see.

“We hope to get Callum back but there is no guarantee at this moment. He’s still in the very early stages of running again.

“But he’ll be a massive player to get back at any stage of the season to give us a lift to go into the final few games.”

Ahead of Everton, Joe Willock is set to return after missing the 1-0 defeat at Chelsea through illness, though Jonjo Shelvey and Joelinton are touch and go.

Federico Fernandez has returned to training having not played since December, while Kieran Trippier is continuing his recovery from a broken foot.