Newcastle United need to dust themselves down rather quickly.
Indeed, Saturday’s disappointing defeat will quickly be forgotten if Newcastle can reach the Carabao Cup final on Wednesday night.
Newcastle lost 2-1 to Fulham even despite having taken the lead through Jacob Murphy in what was a hugely disappointing afternoon at St James’ Park.
To have lost two consecutive home games does not exactly lift the mood ahead of Arsenal’s visit in the second leg of the semi-final, albeit Newcastle do hold a 2-0 advantage after winning at the Emirates Stadium what now feels like a lifetime ago.
Sadly for Newcastle, there is an injury worry. Joelinton looks like a doubt for Newcastle against Arsenal after coming off injured against Fulham, which is no doubt a major blow.
Still, Eddie Howe did quickly provide a more promising update when it comes to Callum Wilson.
Eddie Howe confirms potential Newcastle United injury boost ahead of Arsenal clash
Wilson has not played since December’s defeat at Brentford.
However, it appears as if the striker is finally set to return to the squad for the visit of the Gunners, albeit it remains to be seen if he will feature from the off.
Alexander Isak is of course Newcastle’s starting striker and it’s almost impossible to imagine him not playing against the Gunners, but having Wilson back is a big boost for both that game and the season ahead.
Speaking after the Fulham defeat, Howe said: “Callum will be there or thereabouts for Wednesday’s game.
“He’s trained a couple of times, and looked good. Obviously, I’ll speak to everyone connected to Callum and his welfare, and make sure we involve him at the right time.”
What Newcastle insiders think about Callum Wilson ahead of injury return
Insiders at Newcastle think Wilson has a renewed drive to make a difference, having seen his season derailed by injury after injury.
Given his patchy record on the fitness front, it remains to be seen if the striker can truly act on that but, when fit, his ability to score goals can hardly be doubted.
If Newcastle need a goal late on, there can surely be few better back-up strikers to turn towards.
Wilson could yet play a big part this season…
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