Eddie Howe provides Newcastle United update on Callum Wilson ahead of Carabao Cup final

Eddie Howe has issued a positive update on Callum Wilson after the Newcastle United striker’s half-hour cameo against Liverpool.

Having ended his long goal-drought versus West Ham seven days earlier, the Magpies No.9 missed out on a visit to former club Bournemouth last weekend due to a minor hamstring injury.

The 30-year-old didn’t return to training until Friday but after an encouraging session was named on the bench for the visit of Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Wilson was introduced in place of Alexander Isak on 64 minutes and came through unscathed. He almost found the net but was denied by a strong save by Reds goalkeeper Alisson.

“I think Callum did well when he came on,” said Howe. “He had the chance to score, and he is probably disappointed by the opportunity he didn’t take.

“It was really good driving play from Anthony (Gordon), who did well, as did most of the substitutes. Callum did well. I’m pleased with him and pleased he’s come through that 30-minute spell.”

Wilson is set to be involved in next Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester United but is facing a battle to regain his starting spot.

Howe was impressed by Isak and Allan Saint-Maximin’s link up play during the 2-0 defeat at home to Klopp’s men.

“I thought Maxi started the game really well on the left and gave them transitional problems,” Howe said.

“When he moved centrally, he had a different role but his influence on the game was still there and formed a really good partnership with Alex, I thought they looked really good together. Their dribbling ability, their pace, yeah we were a constant threat in the game.

“I was very pleased with the team and how they responded. It was only the latter parts of the game as we tired when Liverpool created some chances.”