Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson gives update on return from injury

The Magpies top goalscorer has been out of action since he suffered a calf injury in the 1-1 home draw against Manchester United in December.

The injury forced United into the transfer market and £25million signing Chris Wood has filled the void left by Wilson’s absence since moving the Tyneside in January.

Wilson has cut a frustrated figure as he watched on from the sidelines but hopes were raised he would be able to return before the end of the season when he returned to light training earlier this week.

Speaking on the Footballer’s Football Podcast, Wilson gave an update on his recovery - but stopped short of confirming when he could return to a Premier League matchday squad.

He said: “(I am) getting there slowly, making good progress.

“(I) should be out on the pitches very soon, which will be good and that way, you know you are very close to a return.

“(I) can’t really give a firm update as to when I’ll be back because I still don’t know.”

Magpies manager Eddie Howe also spoke about Wilson - who has travelled to Dubai with the United squad for a warm weather training camp - ahead of Thursday night’s defeat at Everton.

He said: “When a player returns from injury and you see him on the grass, it’s a great thing to see.

“We hope to have Callum back but there is no guarantee at the moment.

“He’s still in the early stages of running but he’ll be a massive player to have back at any stage as we go into the final few games.”