Callum Wilson has bounced back brilliantly after a tough start to 2023, and he has been massively praised by Newcastle United teammate Kieran Trippier.
The Newcastle duo went to the World Cup together before Christmas, reaching the quarter finals with England.
They were immediately thrust back into Newcastle’s quest for a cup final and Champions League football, and endured mixed fortunes.
While Trippier has been a picture of consistency all season, Wilson majorly struggled after the World Cup. From returning from Qatar to the Carabao Cup final, the 31-year-old was not his usual self.
It culminated in him losing his place to Alexander Isak, who has been incredible. But Wilson has responded himself, and is now Newcastle’s top scorer.
The number nine has 15 Premier League goals to his name, and has received a huge amount of praise from Trippier.
Kieran Trippier ‘can’t fault’ Callum Wilson
The 32-year-old has spoke to the Shields Gazette about Wilson’s dip in form at the start of the year, and admitted that he felt the same about his own form.
“After the World Cup in the middle of the season, it’s unusual and quite a lot of player’s form dipped, mine included,” he said.
“There were moments in games after the World Cup where I didn’t perform like I did before but that’s normal I think.
“[Wilson] has shown great character to come back certainly after the international break where he didn’t come away with England [in March] and that was a good time for him to reflect and rest. The goals speak for themselves after that but I can’t fault his professionalism.”
Wilson bounces back
It is interesting to see Trippier suggest his form dipped after the World Cup. That did not appear to be the case, but he is much better positioned to judge his own performances.
Wilson’s struggles were clear for all to see, but he is now back to his best, scoring eight goals in seven games. He is probably enjoying his best ever run in a Toon shirt.
The competition that Isak has provided has lifted Wilson’s game to a new level, while he has had to deal with becoming a ‘super sub’ rather than a regular starter.
It is not something that Wilson is pleased about, but Trippier has praised the way that the striker has handled himself behind the scenes. That is why Wilson is part of Eddie Howe’s leadership group, and why he is a valuable member of this Newcastle squad.
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