CALLUM WILSON is a doubt to face Chelsea this weekend after suffering from an illness just days before the World Cup.
The Newcastle striker was named in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man England squad for Qatar yesterday.
Wilson, 30, was substituted at half-time during Newcastle’s 4-1 win over Southampton on Sunday.
He subsequently missed his side’s League Cup victory over Crystal Palace in mid-week, with boss Eddie Howe confirming that his star striker has been training on his own after suffering with illness.
Ahead of his side’s clash with Chelsea tomorrow, Howe said of his forward: “We’ll wait and see.
“He’s been training separately from the group. He had an illness, so he’s been away from the group.
“He’s been working well, but I need to make a decision on whether he’s fit enough to play.”
Wilson beat off competition from the likes of Tammy Abraham, Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins to make the cut for Qatar – and he will be joined in the England camp by Toon team-mates Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier.
On the Magpies having three players in the Three Lions squad, Howe gushed: “I think it’s great for us. We’re really proud of our international players.
“We try and provide a place where players can excel and do well and hopefully get called up for their international teams.
PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
“Delighted for all concerned.”
Chris Wood could deputise for Wilson against Chelsea on Saturday, having replaced him in the win over Southampton last weekend.
The New Zealand international bagged his first goal of the season as the Toon ran out comfortable winners.
