Injury-ridden Callum Wilson reveals exact reason why Eddie Howe took him on Newcastle United training camp

Injury-ridden Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has revealed why manager Eddie Howe was so keen on him to join the first-team training camp in Saudi Arabia, even if he couldn't participate in sessions.

The Magpies' striker has had a season hampered by injuries with both hamstring and calf injuries taking their toll.

Wilson hasn't featured for the side since limping off in the 1-1 thriller against Manchester United on December 27.

The forward has been battling for fitness since and still isn't taking part in full first-team training.

It turned some heads, therefore, when Wilson joined the squad for a training camp in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking on The Footballer's Football Podcast with Michail Antonio, Wilson admitted that his injury recovery was 'moving slow'.

He added the reason why Howe had insisted he come on the training camp.

Wilson said: "It was nice, it was different.

"I'd never been to Saudi Arabia before.

"Usually, it would be a training camp, but I've managed to get the team bonding side of things out there with dinners and team events, which the manager wanted me out there for.

"I've done my rehab with the physio and, when I've had my opportunity, got myself in the sun and had a little sunbathe.

"A little bit of sun in the winter is always good for the body, come back with that Saudi Arabian glow."

United have missed Wilson's talismanic presence up front since his injury, January signing Chris Wood arriving to fill in.

Wood arrived from relegation rivals Burnley early on in the window and was one of five additions made by the club's new owners.

Other signings included Keiran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn.