Newcastle United star ruled out of next five matches following surgery bombshell

Newcastle United’s head coach, Eddie Howe, has given an update on the fitness of striker Callum Wilson. Wilson, who traveled with the squad to Adidas Headquarters in Germany last week, missed training and the 3-1 friendly victory over SpVgg Unterhaching due to a back problem that required specialist attention.

Following Newcastle’s 2-0 win over Hull City at the MKM Stadium, Howe confirmed that Wilson has undergone an operation on his back. This procedure addresses a disc bulge that necessitated treatment. As a result, Wilson is expected to miss the 2024-25 Premier League season opener against Southampton on August 17.

Speaking after the Hull City match, Howe elaborated on Wilson’s situation: “Callum had an injection in his back. Without going into too much detail on the injury, I think it was a bulge in his disc which needed treatment so he had that operation and I think he may miss the start of the season. But thankfully there are not too many games at the start, we’re week to week so hopefully he won’t miss too many.”

Wilson’s absence means he will miss Newcastle’s upcoming friendly matches against Urawa Red Diamonds, Yokohama F. Marinos, Girona, and Brest. These games are crucial for the team’s preparation ahead of the new Premier League season.

After the season opener against Southampton, Newcastle will travel to Wilson’s former club, AFC Bournemouth, at the Vitality Stadium on August 25. Interestingly, since joining Newcastle in 2020, Wilson has not faced Bournemouth in the Premier League, having missed all four encounters between the sides.

Wilson, 32, has been linked with a potential move away from Newcastle this summer. However, his injury is likely to hinder any transfer plans. Entering the final year of his contract at St James’ Park, Wilson remains a key player for Newcastle, heading into the new season as the club’s second top goalscorer in the Premier League behind Alan Shearer.

Wilson’s contribution to Newcastle United since his arrival in 2020 has been significant. Despite injury setbacks, he has consistently proven himself as a reliable goalscorer. His absence at the start of the season will undoubtedly be felt, but Newcastle fans will hope for his swift recovery and return to form.

Eddie Howe’s remarks suggest confidence in the squad’s depth to manage Wilson’s absence. With a busy pre-season schedule and the Premier League fixtures coming up, other forwards will need to step up and fill the void left by Wilson.

Newcastle United’s strategy for the upcoming season will need to adapt to the absence of their star striker. The team’s performance in pre-season friendlies and the early Premier League matches will be crucial in setting the tone for the season.

While Callum Wilson’s injury and subsequent surgery are setbacks for Newcastle United, the team’s strong pre-season performance and Eddie Howe’s strategic planning offer optimism. The Magpies will aim to start the season strong, with hopes that Wilson will return to action soon and continue to be a key player for the club.