Wales became the 28th team to qualify for the 2022 Qatar World Cup following their play-off triumph against Ukraine on Sunday evening. There are just four places left to be decided ahead of the first winter edition of football’s biggest tournament.
There will be a few players within the Newcastle United squad hoping to play their part in Qatar. Seven of them have a genuine chance of representing their respective countries at the end of the year and we've put together a list of those players.
Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson – England
England go into the World Cup as one of the favourites to bring home the famous trophy. As one of Gareth Southgate’s most trusted players, Kieran Trippier will be expectant of a place in the final squad, especially on the back of the form he has shown for United.
Speaking of form, Callum Wilson will also know he has a genuine chance of making the squad as he is one of his country’s most prolific goalscorers. There is, of course, a big caveat and that is his fitness. If he can stay fully fit and can keep scoring goals for Newcastle, there is no reason why Wilson shouldn’t expect to see his name touted for a spot in the Three Lions squad.
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Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton – Brazil
Bruno Guimaraes has been a regular fixture in the recent Brazil squads and, like Trippier, he will be expecting to be in his nation’s final World Cup squad. In a deeper midfield role, he has provided a goal or an assist, on average, every 37 minutes in the famous yellow and green shirt.
His United team mate Joelinton must be knocking on the door for a maiden call-up after being awarded multiple Player of the Season awards at St James’ Park. Eddie Howe has claimed the newly-found midfield maestro is more than good enough to play for Brazil, Joelinton will be hoping manager Tite feels the same.
Fabian Schar – Switzerland
There aren’t many active footballers with more international caps than the 71 Fabian Schar has accumulated for Switzerland. Since making his debut in 2013, the 30-year-old hasn’t missed many games at all for his country so, permitting he stays fit, the United defender will be one of the first names on the squad list.
Chris Wood – New Zealand
New Zealand are vying for one of the final four places at the World Cup as they face Costa Rica on June 14 in the final play-off round. As the Kiwis’ all-time leading goalscorer, there is no doubt that Chris Wood will be on the plane to Qatar if his side can overcome their South American opponents.
Allan Saint-Maximin – France
Every time Allan Saint-Maximin has been mentioned in the same breath as a senior France call up, his form has dipped. On his day, he is one of Europe’s most threatening wingers but, if he has any chance of a World Cup place, he needs to show his potential in every game between now and November. Even if he is able to do that, the United winger may not even enter the thinking of Didier Deschamps.
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