Report: Staveley has told Southgate to take Newcastle star Wilson to the World Cup

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Gareth Southgate is currently pondering whether or not to take Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson to the World Cup this winter, and Amanda Staveley sent the England boss a clear message on Saturday.

The Three Lions manager was at St James’ Park at the weekend to witness the Magpies batter Aston Villa 4-0. Wilson was on top form, scoring twice and providing an assist. And he came agonizingly close to getting a hat-trick.

But it was a man of the match performance from the 30-year-old, and it will certainly have boosted his international aspirations.

While he was doing his talking on the pitch, he had Toon co-owner Staveley doing his talking off it.

According to the Telegraph, Staveley urged Southgate to choose Wilson in his 26-man squad for the World Cup. However, they report that he gave nothing away about his potential decision.

But Wilson will be enthused by the fact that he is part of the 55-man longlist that Southgate is considering before announcing his squad.

The Telegraph add that the FA have contacted Newcastle’s medical department about Wilson, which should serve as further encouragement.

Now the wait is on to see if the Toon number nine gets a place on the plane to Qatar.

Southgate should take Wilson to the World Cup

Toon legend Alan Shearer claimed at the weekend that Wilson should absolutely go to the World Cup. And we agree.

The £20million man is in brilliant form, boasting six goals from nine games this season. He also has two assists, meaning he is averaging a goal contribution almost every single game.

Brentford’s Ivan Toney is also in form, but doesn’t have the international experience of Wilson. He has represented his country before, but hasn’t played for England since 2019.

That run should come to an end this winter, although there is reportedly concern that his injury record could count against him.

The Telegraph add that people within Newcastle fear that Wilson’s fitness record will cost him a place in Southgate’s squad. They add that the 52-year-old is ‘wary’ of picking the Newcastle star given his recent injuries.

However, Wilson has proved his fitness in recent weeks, and is enjoying a rich vein of form. His performances should earn him a place in Southgate’s England squad – it’s what he deserves.