'Short memories': Eddie Howe doesn't rule out a contract extension for £20m Newcastle United man

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe spoke to the media on Friday morning ahead of Monday's clash with West Ham United at St James' Park.

One of the main questions of the morning was whether Callum Wilson, who has had many false dawns since picking up an injury in pre-season, would be fit to take some part on Monday?

Wilson was supposed to be ready for a return three weeks ago but Eddie Howe played it safe and pushed expectations to after the international break.

Now, Howe has hinted that there's still a chance that Wilson may not make the squad yet again on Monday.

Eddie Howe has left the door open for Callum Wilson

In light of that, Howe was asked if Wilson could still stay at Newcastle beyond his current deal which is due to expire in the summer, and the gaffer kept the door open for Wilson to stay.

“Is there a scenario where Callum could stay beyond his current deal? Of course there is. Callum’s got outstanding qualities. I know everyone in football has short memories, but you look at what Callum has done since I’ve been here – when he’s been on the pitch, he’s been incredible.

“That Champions League season, the way he and Alex [Isak] dovetailed together, to help each other and help the team to produce some brilliant performances and results was brilliant to see. Now, for a long period of time, we’ve lost that ability to play them together or to help them share the load. That’s been a real frustration of mine, and I know for the players themselves too.”

“My wish for Callum is just that he gets back consistently fit. If he does that, then there’s no doubting his qualities. Beyond that, the future will take care of itself. I don’t necessarily get too bogged down or worried about that [the contract], it’s more about just helping Callum in the short term.”

Has Eddie Howe lost his mind or was it a clever answer from the gaffer?

Yes, people in football do have short memories, but it seems Eddie has a selective memory.

Nobody has forgotten just how good Callum Wilson has been for Newcastle, I don't think anybody doubts that, but the fact of the matter is, he's never on the pitch these days to contribute anything of worth.

We may get a few games out of him this season if we're lucky, but in no universe should we be making any efforts to keep him beyond his current deal. Hopefully, this was just an answer from Howe designed to not crush Wilson's spirit rather than an actual admission that he's considering a new deal.