SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND - JANUARY 12: Callum Wilson of Newcastle United and Ethan Ampadu of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Newcastle United at Bramall Lane on January 12, 2021 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. Sporting stadiums around England remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
Chelsea have been handed a massive boost heading into their Premier League clash against Newcastle United on Monday night after Magpies boss Steve Bruce revealed that his side will be without star striker Callum Wilson.
The 28-year-old limped off the pitch in the first half of Newcastle’s 3-2 win over Southampton on February 6 and Wilson’s hamstring injury is far more serious than the club’s medical staff had initially assessed.
Bruce has now confirmed that the England international will be sidelined for at least 6-8 weeks after a scan revealed the full extent of his damage.
The manager described Wilson’s absence as a ‘bitter pill to swallow’, admitting that it will be very difficult for him to replace someone of his calibre in front of goal.
“We hoped it was a grade on two to three weeks but it is worse than that. We have to be without him for 6-8 weeks, but we won’t put a time scale on it. It is devastating news for us.
“Without Callum, it will be hardcore. He has been terrific. It will be difficult to replace him.”
Indeed, Newcastle’s attack will lack that clinical edge without Wilson in the mix when Chelsea play host to the struggling Magpies on Monday. That’s when you consider that the likes of Dwight Gayle, Andy Carroll and Joelinton have shared only three league goals among them this term.
The former Bournemouth star is currently Newcastle’s top goal contributor in the Premier League with 10 goals and 5 assists in just 21 appearances. Hence, his absence would certainly make things a lot easier for Tuchel’s side at the back.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have their own share of injury problems to contend with. The Blues will be keeping their fingers crossed over the availability of Timo Werner, who has been ruled out for the FA Cup trip to Barnsley after suffering a dead leg against Sheffield United.
Thiago Silva is unlikely to be back on Monday as he continues his recovery from a muscle problem.
Jadon Sancho has hit the ground running in his season-long loan at Chelsea, with the Blues eyeing a permanent deal…
Chelsea appear to be rediscovering their form under Enzo Maresca, aiming for a top-four finish as they currently sit third…
In their bid to further bolster their defense, Chelsea are aiming to make a big move for the star right-back…
Christopher Nkunku is keen to leave Chelsea in January over lack of game time in the Premier League There has…
Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres is on the radar of Chelsea Chelsea are riding high in the Premier League, sitting…
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca eyeing defensive reinforcements in January Chelsea could well find themselves in the market to improve their…