Eddie Howe feels that Callum Wilson has hit a rich vein of form just in time to be in World Cup contention.
Wilson is under consideration for the Qatar tournament and while he wouldn't be first choice, he could be the ideal option from the bench if the likes of Harry Kane misfire. But Howe made it clear that fitness wasn't an issue for Wilson going into the tournament.
Howe said: "He performed to a very high level physically. Everyone knows how we want to play and with that comes a big responsibility on the number nine to set us off in our off the ball plan.
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"I thought he executed that very well as he always has done for me."
Wilson netted a wonderful chipped effort against Spurs last weekend in the capital to secure a 2-1 win for Newcastle. Howe felt the goal didn't get all the plaudits it deserved amid a debate over whether Hugo Lloris was fouled or not.
Howe said: "With the ball, he has certain demands placed upon him as well and his all-round game is very good. His goal was an excellent one and it's probably underestimated how good that finish was. I was very pleased with him."
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