Newcastle United Set to Offer Callum Wilson a New Contract, Highlighting His Key Role

Callum Wilson is set to earn a new contract at Newcastle United and could remain with the squad next season, according to manager Eddie Howe.

The former AFC Bournemouth striker is poised to return to action in the FA Cup fourth-round clash against Birmingham City after a season plagued by injuries.

His campaign was disrupted by a back problem in pre-season, followed by a hamstring injury before Christmas, limiting the England international to just 57 Premier League minutes so far.

Discussions regarding Wilson’s future have taken place behind the scenes, and while nothing is finalized, expectations are that he will play a crucial role in Newcastle’s run-in.

Wilson recently made his comeback in the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Arsenal, and his return to full fitness is seen as a valuable boost for the club.

Newcastle’s strict Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) restrictions make retaining Wilson a more financially viable option than letting him leave and then having to find a replacement.

When asked about Wilson’s future at the club, Howe was optimistic. “Yeah, absolutely there is,” he said. “I can’t write the future. I can’t predict what’s going to happen. I’d never write Callum Wilson off.”

Howe acknowledges that Newcastle has a small squad heading into the second half of the season, but he believes every player, including Wilson, is ready to fight for their place.

“I’m looking for players, every time I bring them into the team or off the bench, to leave a positive impression,” Howe explained. “I don’t want a set team. I don’t want an XI that continually plays.

I want the squad to challenge that decision-making. They can do that in training every day and, of course, in matches where everyone sees them perform.”

Despite a quiet January transfer window, Howe is adamant that players must maintain the right mindset and not let disappointment affect their performances.

“There should be no moment where they step onto the pitch with a negative state of mind,” he warned.

“They’re representing an unbelievable football club, and they need to do the shirt and the badge justice.”

Newcastle will aim to keep their FA Cup hopes alive in Birmingham before shifting focus to a crucial Champions League showdown against Manchester City next weekend.