The international break came at a good time for Newcastle United.
While Eddie Howe’s side did well to get back on track following three defeats in a row heading into the September break, this month’s pausing of Premier League action served another purpose.
Indeed, Newcastle have been struggling with injuries of late, so at least a slight easing of the schedule will have afforded players more chance to work their way up to full fitness.
One of those is Callum Wilson.
Brought on against West Ham after Alexander Isak asked to come off with a slight issue, Howe will need the £20m striker – particularly if the Sweden international is injured long-term.
Heading into a game against Crystal Palace – a fixture Newcastle will be expected to win at home – Wilson has now provided a rather cryptic update on his fitness.
Newcastle team news: Callum Wilson provides cryptic injury update
Speaking on the Footballer’s Football Podcast, the England international refused to comment on whether or not he would feature on Saturday.
“I’m not answering that question, I don’t want Palace knowing any details about me,” he said when asked about his current level of fitness.
Opinion: Wilson can give Howe a Newcastle selection headache
While it remains unclear as to whether or not Isak will feature, the fact Wilson got some minutes against West Ham before the break would suggest he’s got a chance to start.
If he does, it offers a real chance for the 31-year-old.
Isak has largely started all of the bigger games this season and, at 24, obviously provides a much more long-term option.
Still, Wilson remains a prolific goalscorer at Premier League level. Even this season with a relative bit-part role, he’s scored four goals in just two starts.
Should he grasp any chance Isak’s potential injury has offered, perhaps he’ll be the main man to turn to for the rest of the Champions League campaign.
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