‘Definitely not’ – Callum Wilson hits back at Newcastle United and Premier League criticism

Newcastle United prepare for a crucial run of fixtures before facing Liverpool in next month’s Carabao Cup final. With several important Premier League matches ahead, maintaining focus remains essential.

Heading into Sunday’s clash against Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park, the Magpies had suffered three defeats in their last four league games, including back-to-back home losses.

Despite this poor form, they produced an explosive 14-minute spell, scoring four times to establish a commanding 4-1 lead. Victory seemed assured, but two second-half goals from the visitors turned the final moments into a tense affair. Newcastle managed to hold on, cutting the gap to Nuno Espirito Santo’s side to just three points.

The result alleviates some concerns about Newcastle slipping out of European contention, especially after favorable results elsewhere on Saturday. However, their second-half performance raises questions about defensive stability.

Consistently allowing teams back into matches could prove costly, particularly if players become distracted by the upcoming cup final. Avoiding complacency remains key to ensuring the team stays competitive in both domestic competitions.

Callum Wilson dismissed suggestions that the Carabao Cup final has become a distraction, addressing the issue in a pre-match column ahead of the Forest game.

He emphasized that the squad remains fully committed to each match and refuted the idea that the defeat to Manchester City resulted from players looking ahead to Wembley.

Wilson pointed out that Newcastle had already secured a cup victory over Birmingham after confirming their place in the final, proving that their approach remained professional.

He stressed the importance of maintaining momentum, highlighting that no team wants to enter a final out of form. Confidence plays a crucial role, and every match leading up to the final serves as an opportunity to build belief and secure results.

He made it clear that while lifting silverware is a major ambition, the team also aims to qualify for European football next season, making every Premier League fixture vital.

Eddie Howe and Nuno Espírito Santo found themselves in agreement following Newcastle’s 4-3 victory over Nottingham Forest. Both managers acknowledged the chaotic nature of the match, with Newcastle’s blistering first-half display overshadowed by a nervy second half.

The attacking fluency on display demonstrated Newcastle’s firepower, but the defensive lapses remain an area of concern. Addressing these weaknesses must be a priority as they approach a demanding fixture schedule.

Newcastle now face a demanding period before their trip to Wembley. Just three days separate them from their next test—a showdown with Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday night. The clash serves as a dress rehearsal for the Carabao Cup final, giving both teams an opportunity to assess each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Following that, Newcastle shift focus to the FA Cup, hosting Brighton at St James’ Park next Sunday. The Seagulls claimed victory in the league fixture between the two sides in October, making this an opportunity for Newcastle to exact revenge and move within one game of another Wembley appearance.

After the FA Cup tie, Newcastle enjoy an eight-day break before their final match ahead of the cup final. A trip to the London Stadium awaits on March 10, where they take on West Ham in a crucial Premier League encounter.

With kick-off set for 8 p.m., this match presents the last chance for Howe’s side to fine-tune their preparations before stepping onto the grand stage at Wembley. Every fixture in this run-in carries significance, and ensuring the squad remains fully focused will be key to balancing their domestic ambitions.

Navigating this intense schedule requires Newcastle to strike the right balance between rotating the squad and maintaining rhythm. Injuries and fatigue could play a role, making squad depth an essential factor.

Howe’s ability to manage these challenges will determine whether Newcastle enter the final in peak condition. Maintaining consistency in the league also remains crucial, as slipping up could hinder their European aspirations. The coming weeks will test the squad’s resilience, and every performance will shape the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season.