Newcastle’s striker Callum Wilson underwent chest surgery following a pectoral muscle injury sustained during the 3-2 Premier League victory against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
As a result, the 31-year-old England international may be sidelined for a significant portion of the remaining season.
Despite his contribution of eight goals in 22 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle this season, Wilson has been troubled by hamstring and calf issues.
“It is no doubt a big blow for him,” said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.
“It’s been a stop-start season for him. We hope he’s back before the end of the season.”
Wilson completed the game against Forest but used his shirt to make a sling at full-time.
“It was a strange injury. He got in a tussle with the centre-back at the end of the last match,” said Howe.
“We had it scanned and hoped initially he could continue, but when he went to see a specialist I think it was apparent quite early that he needed it operating on.”
Newcastle, currently positioned seventh in the table, will host Bournemouth this Saturday. With 14 games remaining before the season concludes on 19 May, they face an important stretch ahead.
Wilson, who featured in England’s victory over Scotland in a friendly back in September, remains a significant player for both club and country.
Looking ahead, England is scheduled to play friendlies against Brazil and Belgium next month before the commencement of Euro 2024 on 14 June.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe expressed his desire for a swift resolution regarding the future of the club’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth.
Ashworth has been approached by Manchester United for a similar role at Old Trafford. Howe mentioned that Ashworth hasn’t assured him of staying, stating, “As we speak now, we’ve had no contact from anyone.
“It’s quite an unusual situation. Usually there’s transfer speculation on players – this is very different.”