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Chris Knight

Callum Wilson explains illness and half-time change as Newcastle boss awaits fitness update

Callum Wilson admits his head was 'spinning' before being substituted at half-time of Newcastle United's victory at Southampton. The number nine was replaced by Chris Wood at the break as the Magpies earned a 4-1 win at St Mary's on Sunday.

Wilson revealed he was feeling 'run down' in the build-up to the clash on the south coast, days after scoring twice in the home victory over Aston Villa. The 30-year-old suffered with illness during the week, and it was 'touch and go' as to whether he would start against the Saints.

The striker played his part in Miguel Almiron's goal which opened the scoring, but did not emerge for the second-half with Wood scoring the second shortly after the restart. Eddie Howe confirmed Wilson would be assessed ahead of Wednesday night's Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace, and the former Bournemouth star has discussed how he struggled during the televised encounter.

READ MORE: Eddie Howe offers Callum Wilson World Cup verdict and explains Joelinton disappointment

When asked about his illness, told the BBC's Footballer's Football Podcast : "Been better! It didn't keep me out of the game, I still rocked out of my bed and turned up but I didn't really take part did I?!

"It's disappointing but we got the three points which is the main thing. I was in bed all week so it was touch and go whether I was going to play. You know me, I rolled out of bed, even on my deathbed I'll be trying to run on the pitch. Eventually it was time to come off, I wasn't feeling great.

"It was just illness. You know when you have some days good and some days bad. I was feeling alright, I can play and my heart rate must not have gone up that much in the week.

"As soon as I started running around, I was just spinning so I was like forget this, it's time to get off the pitch. Sometimes there's thing which are bigger than a football match, health is important and it was the right decision at the right time from the technical staff."

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