'Makes sense' - Newcastle United star ruled out of 14 matches in fresh injury update

The Magpies have been without the striker since July because of a back and hamstring issue. The 32-year-old’s last competitive appearance came on the final day of last season - the 4-2 victory at Brentford.

Having returned to training ahead of the recent defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, it was hoped Wilson would play a part in last Sunday’s trip to Chelsea, however United boss Eddie Howe ruled him out of the visit to Stamford Bridge, plus the Carabao Cup meeting against the Blues in midweek and this weekend’s clash versus Arsenal.

Newcastle head to Nottingham Forest next week and while Howe hasn’t totally ruled Wilson out, he admits it “probably makes sense” to wait until after the two-week break when his side host West Ham United at St James’ Park.

Howe said: “He’s doing ok, he’s building his load again. There was no real injury but a feeling in his body he couldn't push as hard as he wanted to push and needs to push to play at this level. Physically you have to be perfect at this level.

“We’ll make a decision but he’s definitely out of this game and we’ll make a decision on how he feels for Nottingham Forest but with the two week gap, it probably makes sense to wait.”

It has been a frustrating time for Wilson, who has made just appearances this year, only two of which have been starts. His last was at Burnley in May where his goal saw him climb to second behind Alan Shearer in Newcastle’s all-time Premier League top scorer chart.