Fresh Callum Wilson injury update ahead of Newcastle United’s clash v Liverpool

Callum Wilson has explained why he missed Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw at AFC Bournemouth.

The Magpies No.9 was expected to start against his former club after breaking his 11-game goal drought seven days earlier at home to West Ham United.

However, the 30-year-old was left out of the squad because of a “very minor hamstring injury”.

Head coach Eddie Howe said it was possible the striker could return for Saturday’s Premier League clash versus Liverpool at St James’ Park. Wilson, meanwhile, has spoken about his injury on the BBC Footballer’s Football Podcast.

“For me, I was burning inside to go back there, a club that was so good to me, but I felt some tightness in my hamstring in training,” Wilson explained.

“That can happen when you’re working hard. We’d worked hard in previous games, and we train hard too, similar to how we play.

“I can’t take any risks anymore. Too often I’ve been 80% fit, declared myself available to play, and then ended up pulling up with something after 20 minutes. I’m not going to cross that bridge again.

“I decided it was best to rest. We have a big game against Liverpool and a cup final to prepare for.”

Wilson spent six years at the Vitality Stadium and scored 67 in 187 appearances. He was determined to play at his former stomping ground but revealed a conversation with United’s medical staff made up his mind.

“It wasn’t my choice to do that, it was a discussion between myself and the medical staff that the right decision would be to rest,” Wilson added.

“If you’re feeling something, and the history of pulling up and stuff like that, you’re going to injure yourself a bit more.”