Callum Wilson is set to miss Newcastle United’s match against Arsenal this weekend, but the away side could welcome a few other players back into the fold.

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND: Callum Wilson of Newcastle United applauds the fans following the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United at Molineux on October 28, 2023. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND: Callum Wilson of Newcastle United applauds the fans following the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United at Molineux on October 28, 2023. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

The BBC report that Callum Wilson has had chest surgery, and the striker could be set to miss much of the rest of the season. At the very least, he’ll be expected to miss Newcastle United’s trip to Arsenal on Saturday.

The good news for Newcastle is that centre-forward alternative Alexander Isak is on the verge of a return, with Eddie Howe reporting last week that the striker was “very close”, despite missing their last fixture.

Former Gunner Joe Willock is also close to a return, and having only made six appearances across the season so far, he could now make his comeback at the Emirates Stadium against his old club.

Newcastle United's English midfielder Joe Willock celebrates after scoring a goal during the English Premier League football match between West Ham and Newcastle United at the London Stadium, in London on February 19, 2022. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Newcastle United’s English midfielder Joe Willock celebrates after scoring a goal during the English Premier League football match between West Ham and Newcastle United at the London Stadium, in London on February 19, 2022. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

After his controversial involvement in Newcastle United’s winner in the reverse fixture, Joelinton has been ruled out of this weekend’s game following thigh surgery.

Newcastle themselves reported that Joelinton is expected to return to action in May 2024, long after their trip to north London.

Sandro Tonali remains absent through his gambling suspension, and he’s not available to play again this season.

Nick Pope has a shoulder injury, and he’ll also be out for long enough to miss the trip to the Emirates.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope receives treatment for a shoulder injury which forces him to leave the field during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on December 02, 2023. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope receives treatment for a shoulder injury which forces him to leave the field during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on December 02, 2023. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Fabian Schar could also return to action against Arsenal, following a hand injury. Matt Targett and Elliot Anderson will be out.