Boost for Chelsea as Newcastle set to miss Callum Wilson for PL clash
Chelsea have been handed a massive boost heading into their Premier League clash against Newcastle United on Monday night after Magpies boss Steve Bruce revealed that his side will be without star striker Callum Wilson.
The 28-year-old limped off the pitch in the first half of Newcastle’s 3-2 win over Southampton on February 6 and Wilson’s hamstring injury is far more serious than the club’s medical staff had initially assessed.
Bruce has now confirmed that the England international will be sidelined for at least 6-8 weeks after a scan revealed the full extent of his damage.
The manager described Wilson’s absence as a ‘bitter pill to swallow’, admitting that it will be very difficult for him to replace someone of his calibre in front of goal.
“We hoped it was a grade on two to three weeks but it is worse than that. We have to be without him for 6-8 weeks, but we won’t put a time scale on it. It is devastating news for us.
“Without Callum, it will be hardcore. He has been terrific. It will be difficult to replace him.”
Indeed, Newcastle’s attack will lack that clinical edge without Wilson in the mix when Chelsea play host to the struggling Magpies on Monday. That’s when you consider that the likes of Dwight Gayle, Andy Carroll and Joelinton have shared only three league goals among them this term.
The former Bournemouth star is currently Newcastle’s top goal contributor in the Premier League with 10 goals and 5 assists in just 21 appearances. Hence, his absence would certainly make things a lot easier for Tuchel’s side at the back.
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Meanwhile, Chelsea have their own share of injury problems to contend with. The Blues will be keeping their fingers crossed over the availability of Timo Werner, who has been ruled out for the FA Cup trip to Barnsley after suffering a dead leg against Sheffield United.
Thiago Silva is unlikely to be back on Monday as he continues his recovery from a muscle problem.
