Callum Wilson has claimed the St James’ Park crowd is what inspired him to join Newcastle United. Almost 90,000 fans attended the home soil double-header against Atalanta and Athletic Bilbao over the weekend.
Two victories against reputed European opposition provides the Magpies with the ideal preparation ahead of their Premier League opener on Saturday. A testing pre-season schedule saw Newcastle play eight fixtures - including the two behind-closed-doors games against Burnley - to prepare for Nottingham Forest.
Wilson bagged the first against Bilbao in a 2-1 win to continue his impressive form since returning from a torn calf. At the back end of last season, the number nine reminded Toon supporters what he is capable of with stellar performances against Arsenal and Burnley.
READ MORE: Steve Bruce grateful for Pep Guardiola support amid 'emotional' Newcastle United experience
Speaking to NUFC TV post-match, the 30-year-old eulogised United fans for their support, insisting “everyone wants to be a part” of the new-look Newcastle. “Today was all about making sure that we put in a positive performance,” Wilson said.
“It's seven days until the first game of the season so you always want to end the last pre-season game with a goal and a positive result. I enjoy playing at home; I enjoy scoring early goals.
“The fans here get you going straight away from the get-go. You’re desperate to get on the score sheet and they give you a real lift (when they’re) singing away. It's fantastic support. That's why I joined the club - everyone wants to be a part of it. It is nice to repay them (the fans) on both days with two positive results.
The striker is also relishing the prospect of an injury-free campaign after missing large chunks of 2021-22. Wilson has missed 32 top-flight games since arriving on Tyneside two years ago - almost an entire season.
He added: “I’ve got a couple of goals in pre-season now so it's good to take a little bit of confidence going into the start of the season. I’m looking forward to the league starting. I ended it (last season) positively. I missed a bulk of it last year, disappointedly.
“For me, the season finished at the wrong time. So I've had to stay physically and mentally in a good place to make sure that when the start of the season comes around - you're ready. So hopefully this time next week, I'll be standing back here again talking about a few more goals.”
We want to hear your thoughts, so LOG IN and leave your comment below
READ ON
- I wouldn't say no - Eddie Howe response when asked about signing Portugal's best players
- Werner's agency refuse to comment on Newcastle link as huge wage demands emerge
- Botman's candid story of Newcastle switch after AC Milan claimed victory on deal
- Newcastle United can offer Timo Werner what he wants after Chelsea exit comments
- Joelinton suspension explained after Newcastle United star sees red in Benfica clash
