'I want' - 48-goal striker makes Newcastle United contract claim
Callum Wilson has addressed his Newcastle United future after making his comeback from injury.
Following four months out with a back and hamstring issue, Wilson made his first appearance of the 2024-25 campaign as a 68th minute substitute in the Magpies’ 2-0 defeat to West Ham United on Monday night.
Now Wilson is back fit, conversation has quickly turned to his future. The 32-year-old is out of contract this summer but says he hasn’t yet given it a thought.
Instead, the striker is focused on staying fit and scoring goals. If he can do that, then Wilson has suggested his future will take care of itself.
“I’m not thinking about it to be honest,” said Wilson, who has scored 48 goals since arriving from AFC Bournemouth for £20million in 2020.
“You can only focus on the current situation – that, first and foremost, was getting fit and from there you build on that, stay fit, score your goals and then it’s down to the club on how things progress and like I say, as a striker you score goals and get yourself longevity don’t you?
“I love playing for this club, I joined many years ago and helped the club numerous times throughout the years and I want to be a part of it. It’s about getting going and getting out there – as long as I’m on the pitch I have no doubt I’ll score goals but it’s about staying on the pitch.”
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was too asked about Wilson’s future last week, and he didn’t rule out a possible extension.
“Of course, there is (a scenario where Callum could stay beyond his current deal),” Howe said. “Callum’s got outstanding qualities. I know everyone in football has short memories, but you look at what Callum has done since I’ve been here.
“When he’s been on the pitch, he’s been incredible. That Champions League season, the way he and Alex dovetailed together, to help each other and the team produce some brilliant performances and results was brilliant to see.
“Now, for a long period of time, we’ve lost that ability to play them together or to help them share the load. That’s been a real frustration of mine and I know for the players themselves too.
“My wish for Callum is just that he gets back consistently fit. If he does that, then there’s no doubting his qualities. Beyond that, the future will take care of itself. I don’t necessarily get too bogged down or worried about that, it’s more about just helping Callum in the short term.”