Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe will assess Callum Wilson's chances of starring against Leeds United over the next couple of days.
Wilson was left behind for the Magpies' 3-0 win at Leicester City as the Toon boss took no chances on the striker. New Zealand striker Chris Wood proved to be a capable selection as he smashed home the penalty that got things under way at the King Power Stadium.
When asked about Wilson's chances for Leeds, Howe said: "He hasn’t trained for two days due to illness. "He’s at home with his family. Fingers crossed, he’ll be better soon."
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But Howe may well be tempted to continue with Wood in attack, not least because he will be fired up to face his old club Leeds at St James' Park.
United can sign off what has been an impressive 2022 with three points against the Yorkshire club. And Howe will be looking for another big performance on Tyneside.
Reflecting on the win at Leicester, Howe said: "I’d say the performance was up there when you consider the opposition and the game and the break and everything that has gone into to preparing (for) this game.
And addressing the philosophy his team must continue with moving forward, Howe said: "The only think we need to be mindful of internally is just focus on what we can control and our own thoughts and actions and how we train and how we prepare.
"And not look too far ahead and not listen to too much news and media and just focus on our training and make sure we focus on it game by game."
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