Revealed! Why Callum Wilson is missing for Newcastle United v Leicester City

Newcastle United return to Premier League action against Leicester City this afternoon (kick-off 3pm) - and will be without star striker Callum Wilson.

NewcastleWorld understands the Magpies No.9 misses the clash at the King Power Stadium through illness, with Chris Wood starting in his place in Eddie Howe’s only change from the 1-0 Carabao Cup win over Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

Wilson started against his former club in midweek following his return from the Qatar World Cup. He’ll sit out against the Foxes and target a comeback when Leeds United visit St James’ Park on New Year’s Eve.

Nick Pope is in goal behind a back four of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman and Dan Burn. Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff are the midfield three with Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Wood in attack.

On facing Leicester City, Howe said on Friday: “I think they’re a top team with a top manager. That never changes, in my opinion, even though they had a difficult start to the season.

“The quality of Brendan’s work always shines through on his teams and if you look at their players, not a dramatic amount has changed from the team that has excelled in previous years.

“We respect them immensely, they’re a very good football team. I think now the confidence has returned and they’re a very dangerous opponent for us.”

Newcastle United starting XI: Pope, Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn, Guimaraes, Longstaff, Willock, Almiron, Joelinton, Wood. Subs: