Newcastle United star a 'big doubt' for two games after new injury concern

Gareth Southgate admits Callum Wilson is an injury doubt for England's upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia.

The 31-year-old started Newcastle United's 2-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday evening but was brought off at half-time because of hamstring tightness.

Magpies' boss Eddie Howe said after the game it was "too early to say" if Wilson would be available for this weekend's long trip to his former club Bournemouth.

Nevertheless, Southgate named Wilson in his Three Lions' squad yesterday but admitted his involvement is currently uncertain.

"You would be amazed how complicated it is picking a squad because all clubs are sensitive to information and you're trying to piece everything together," said Southgate.

"I couldn't be certain that everyone who's in that squad will be there on Sunday night.

"There are varying levels of doubt. Callum is probably the biggest doubt but, equally, I'm pretty confident the others can get through and they're all keen to be in the squad so that's a really good sign."

If Wilson is ruled out of the Magpies' visit to the South Coast on Saturday, it's likely Anthony Gordon will move from the left wing to the central striker position, just like he did for the 3-0 win at Manchester United in the Carabao Cup last week.

Gordon, who ranks as one of the Premier League's most in-form wingers, was overlooked by Southgate, as was goalkeeper Nick Pope. Kieran Trippier, however, retained his spot.

"That is an area of the pitch where we have probably got as much competition for places as anywhere," Southgate added.

"You look at Jarrod Bowen has got seven goals this season already. Anthony Gordon is playing very well at Newcastle. Cole Palmer is starting to play well. It's just a changing landscape there."

England host Malta at Wembley on next Friday before travelling to North Macedonia four days' later. Southgate's side have already sealed qualification to next summer's Euros.