Callum Wilson is targeting the Tyne-Wear derby as he works his way back to full fitness at Newcastle United
Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has stated that he “would love” to participate in the Tyne-Wear derby next month. Fans from both clubs were astonished when the Magpies were drawn away at Sunderland at the weekend.
The rivalry has not been played since March 2016, with Newcastle winning the match 12 years ago. The Black Cats’ recent fall down the divisions has put a halt to the fighting, but it is expected to continue in the new year.
Wilson is presently out with a hamstring injury, having missed Newcastle’s past four games in all competitions. The 31-year-old provided an encouraging injury report earlier this week, suggesting that he might be back in full training soon, and he now has his sights set on the Tyne-Wear derby.
“Oof, that is all I’m going to say (about Newcastle drawing Sunderland),” Wilson told the Footballer’s Football podcast. “It is exciting. I joined Newcastle and back in the day I would watch the Tyne-Wear derby and you see (Jermaine) Defoe scoring and that might actually be the last time they played.
“You are thinking, ‘This is what it means to the Magpies to beat Sunderland’. I would love to be involved in that game. As a striker, you have a final say in opportunities. Just to experience the atmosphere, the tension, to score a goal in there would be different.
“It would have been better if it was at St. James’ Park, of course, but even being there, having fewer fans and experiencing the hostile environment from them, it gives you goosebumps. We will turn up, give them a good game I’m sure and they will be licking their lips to try and cause an upset. I am not going to give any ammo for them to start using, but I am looking forward to it.”
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