31-year-old Newcastle player is ‘highly unlikely’ to start vs Bournemouth on Saturday now

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Newcastle United are sweating on the fitness of Callum Wilson ahead of Saturday night’s Premier League game against Bournemouth.

The Magpies are set to take on Wilson‘s former club at the Vitality Stadium, but there is a chance that he could be unavailable after his Champions League exploits.

The 31-year-old started for Newcastle against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, but was withdrawn at half time. After the game, Eddie Howe stated that the decision to substitute him was enforced rather than tactical, with Wilson feeling a tightness in his hamstring.

That news was hugely concerning, as Wilson has had plenty of injury issues over the years. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s squad is stretched enough as it is.

Howe is going to be without multiple key players for the game against his former employers, and now he could be without Wilson too.

‘Surprise’ if Callum Wilson is fit to start for Newcastle against Bournemouth

That is the view of the Athletic’s Chris Waugh, who has spoke about Wilson’s status on the latest episode of Pod On The Tyne.

“I think we have to say that he’s highly doubtful,” he said.

“Eddie Howe would not say that himself after the game which self confirms that he is highly doubtful. He said he took him off at half time because Wilson said he had slightly tight hamstrings and they can’t risk losing him.

Alexander Isak is back training by himself and hopefully after the international break will be available. They are having to manage all these players at the moment.

“We know Callum Wilson can’t really play three games a week, so to see him start on Saturday, at this stage, would be a surprise.”

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle squad is so thin right now

If Wilson is unable to start, it will likely mean that Anthony Gordon has to play up front – like he did in the Carabao Cup win over Manchester United.

While Alexander Isak has been seen back in training, it does not sound like he will be available at the weekend.

Newcastle will head to the south coast with limited options, as injuries and suspensions mount up.

As well as the possibility of Wilson not playing, the Magpies will also be without Bruno Guimaraes. The 25-year-old is suspended after picking up his fifth booking of the season during the 1-0 win over Arsenal.

Howe will at least be able to welcome Emil Krafth and Matt Ritchie back. They are fit, but were not eligible to be part of the Champions League squad that lost to Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.