Campbell issues emphatic Newcastle United claim after journalist’s Callum Wilson talks update
Kevin Campbell has backed Newcastle United’s decision to enter contract talks with Callum Wilson despite the striker’s injury record.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Arsenal and Everton goalscorer claimed the 30-year-old was “a right handful” at the end of last season.
Wilson has two years remaining on his contract at St. James’ Park.
According to the Mirror‘s Tom Hopkinson (3 July), the Magpies are preparing talks over a new deal with the centre-forward in move to secure his long-term future at the club.
The ex-Bournemouth man missed the majority of the 2021-22 campaign with calf and hamstring injuries.
When asked by Football Insider if age and injuries should be a concern for Newcastle in negotiations, Campbell said: “I tell you what, Wilson came back at the end of the season and looked a right handful.
“He looked fit, strong and sharp.
“If you are going to protect the club and the player you have to sign him up to a new deal.
“Now, I think Newcastle’s squad is going to be a lot stronger next season. Maybe there will not be such a reliance on him to score goals.
“Keeping him fit is still really important though. Keep him fit and he will make an impact in most games.
“He is a handful. It is easier said than done to keep Wilson fit though. We saw that last season.”
In other news, a source has revealed that Newcastle United and Leicester City are in a race to sign a 20-year-old after Wolves bid rejected.