Callum Wilson has “no doubt” he will make England’s World Cup squad - providing he stays fit for Newcastle United. Another frustrating start to the season saw the Magpies’ number nine bag twice before suffering a hamstring strain against Manchester City.
Injuries have plagued the 30-year-old’s time on Tyneside since arriving from Bournemouth for £20million. There can be no qualms over Wilson’s goalscoring record but 35 Premier League games missed - almost an entire season - in little over two years is alarming.
The striker signalled his intention to get back into the England squad upon arrival at St James’ Park. As it stands, Wilson has earned four caps for the Three Lions - his last coming against Bulgaria in October 2019.
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Former Newcastle striker Ivan Toney made the headlines this week by earning his first England call-up. Wilson insists he is not jealous of the 26-year-old while backing himself to achieve his dream if injuries do not prevent him.
“I've got every faith in myself now, if I play the games, to get there - there is no doubt in me,” he told the Footballer’s Football podcast. “I'm not disappointed about him (Toney) getting the spot because, ultimately, you have to be on the pitch to be selected.
“I started the season well (with) a couple of goals in just as many games and, if I were to maintain my fitness levels, I have no doubt I might have got myself into the squad. I didn't even think that my name would be associated with the England squad, being out for the games prior to it.
“For me, it was about almost (being) fit for the Bournemouth game. I was hit and miss for that. But missing it gives me an opportunity over the international break to work even harder. It’s about short-term sacrifice for long-term gains and that was my theory behind it.”
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