One bad game doesn't mean there's a time for panicking. Eddie Howe knows that better than anyone. Newcastle United's manager keeps a cool head whether his side have won nine games in a row or been battered 4-1 at home. Never too high and never too low.

The thumping by Bournemouth at St James' Park on Saturday was a bitter blow for the Magpies. Not many people saw that result, or performance coming, even if there had been signs of sloppiness creeping into their win against Wolves. On that evening, the visitors didn't have enough in their armoury to trouble a below-par Newcastle, but Bournemouth certainly did.

It was a lethargic and tired showing from Howe's men, and the manager admitted afterwards that he could have perhaps changed up the team, rather than going with the same starting XI. Hindsight, however, is a wonderful thing.

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What can't be argued against, however, is that the United boss will need to rotate his squad in coming weeks. He made numerous changes against Bromley in the FA Cup, but fresh legs will be vital in a run that will test United. Fortunately they now have a week off before playing Southampton, who themselves look invigorated by a new manager.

Losing players in the transfer window, even if it is just Miguel Almiron, won't help Howe's cause. However, the return of one player in particular would be a huge bonus. Callum Wilson.

The striker is in danger of becoming the forgotten man at St James' Park thanks to the exploits of Alexander Isak. But the Bournemouth game showed what the benefit of having matchwinners on the bench is. When the Magpies looked dead on their feet and needing a goal, Howe opted to bring on full-back Kieran Tripper and Joe Willock. The only real attacking options he had were Will Osula and Almiron, but it is clear from his recent substitutions that he doesn't think they are currently at the level needed for Premier League football.

Wilson is different. They striker has been hampered by injuries but when fit, is someone Howe trusts. He would have no concern bringing the England forward off the bench. A £20million signing five years ago, only Alan Shearer, Peter Beardsley and Isak have scored more Premier League goals for Newcastle than him.

Reports on Friday claimed that Wilson is targeting a return to action for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at home to Arsenal. He hasn't played since picking up a hamstring injury against Brentford on December 7, the third appearance he'd made off the bench in a week after not playing since the end of last season.

The 32-year-old will need to be eased in carefully when he does return to action but is reportedly chomping at the bit to get back on the pitch. With just a few months left on his contract, Wilson is desperate to make another impact before a summer decision is needed.

While he won't usurp Isak in the starting XI now, he will offer a fantastic option from the bench, either when the Swede needs a rest or if Howe wants a different option up front. The Newcastle boss has spoken in glowing terms about a player he also had at Bournemouth.

To say he will be like a new signing is a cliche, but in a transfer window where there will be more outgoings than incomings, having a proven, trusted striker at his disposal will be massive for Howe. He just needs to hope Wilson can stay fit. If he does, goals will surely follow.