Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has explained how the squad’s current trip to Dubai has been great for team bonding. The forward has been able to get to know some of his teammates even better than he did before.
He spoke on the Footballer’s Football Podcast with co-host Michail Antonio about who he’s gotten to know more personally. The main player he cited was Joelinton, a player who has really become a fan favourite in recent months.
“When you get him [Joelinton] around an environment where you’re around the pool having a laugh and having a bit of banter when everyone is all together, what a guy, what a character,” Wilson said.
“It’s just made me like him even more as a person.”
Wilson and his Newcastle teammates look more united than ever before
Under the previous manager Steve Bruce, it often seemed like the players very much did their own thing. During breaks between matches, they would often go on holiday on their own and not as a team.
A big factor in this will have been the lockdown and the pandemic limiting mingling and travelling. Eddie Howe and the owners deserve credit for getting the two trips this season organised.
You definitely get the sense the squad has grown closer in recent months. It certainly seems that way hearing the way Wilson speaks on the matter.
This has really helped with Newcastle’s on-field performances. Current players and new signings all look very much improved and have more belief than they did previously.
Joelinton has looked like a man transformed – especially after Howe identified he would make a great central midfielder.
Despite losing their last two games against Everton and Chelsea, some fans will be feeling more optimistic that Newcastle can bounce back.
Another boost will be the return of Wilson and Kieran Trippier from injuries. They’re both hoping to be back for the Crystal Palace game at the end of April.
With safety nearly secured, Newcastle will look to push for the top 10. They should avoid the drop and, if they do, it will have been a miraculous turnaround.
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