Newcastle United’s 18-word response when asked if Callum Wilson will return v Liverpool

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe says Callum Wilson could be back in time to face Liverpool next week.

The Magpies No.9 missed out on a meeting at former club Bournemouth due to a “minor injury”. It was far from ideal timing for Wilson, who ended his 11-game goal-drought during the 1-1 draw at West Ham United last weekend.

Due to the 30-year-old’s injury record, United fans tend to be more fearful when it comes to Wilson - but Howe insists there is little to worry about.

“Yes, possibly,” said Howe when asked if the England international will return for the visit of Liverpool on Saturday. “He could be. It’s not a big injury, it’s a very minor one. Potentially he could.”

Club-record signing Alexander Isak got the nod in Wilson’s absence for his first Premier League start since September.

The Swede last the full 90 minutes as the Magpies played out a 1-1 draw at the Vitality Stadium.

“He’s been waiting for it, and it was 90 minutes as well, so that will have really done him good,” Howe said on Isak. “Again, I thought there were flashes from Alex today.

“He caused problems with his pace and his athleticism. Yeah I was pleased with his contribution.”