EDDIE HOWE has told Callum Wilson he could still earn a new contract to extend his stay at Newcastle United beyond the end of the season.
Wilson is due to become a free agent next summer, with his current deal due to expire in June, and as things stand, there have been no talks over a potential new contract.
The 32-year-old has suffered an injury-ravaged couple of seasons, making just nine Premier League starts last term and failing to play a single minute of football in the current campaign after suffering a combination of hamstring and back injuries during pre-season.
Wilson has stepped up his training programme during the international break, and has a chance of featuring in the squad that will face West Ham United on Monday night.
And while it has been widely assumed that his time on Tyneside is drawing to an end, Howe is adamant that is not necessarily the case. The Newcastle head coach continues to regard the veteran forward as a key part of his squad, and has suggested that the award of a new contract is still possible.
“Is there a scenario where Callum could stay beyond his current deal? Of course there is,” said Howe. “Callum’s got outstanding qualities. I know everyone in football has short memories, but you look at what Callum has done since I’ve been here – when he’s been on the pitch, he’s been incredible.
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“That Champions League season, the way he and Alex (Isak) dovetailed together, to help each other and help the team to produce some brilliant performances and results was brilliant to see.
“Now, for a long period of time, we’ve lost that ability to play them together or to help them share the load. That’s been a real frustration of mine, and I know for the players themselves too.”
Wilson is due to train over the weekend, with Howe set to monitor his wellbeing closely before deciding on whether or not to name him in the matchday squad for Monday night.
The Magpies boss would like to have an attacking alternative to Isak – William Osula remains on the fringe of things following his summer move from Sheffield United – but is mindful of the need to do everything possible to ensure Wilson does not suffer another damaging injury setback.
“My wish for Callum is just that he gets back consistently fit,” said Howe. “If he does that, then there’s no doubting his qualities.
“Beyond that, the future will take care of itself. I don’t necessarily get too bogged down or worried about that, it’s more about just helping Callum in the short term.”
