Newcastle suffer blow with Callum Wilson injury absence set to continue

Newcastle’s hopes of avoiding relegation have been dented by a delay in Callum Wilson’s return to first-team action. The former Bournemouth striker has scored 10 of the side’s 28 Premier League goals this season but Steve Bruce in effect ruled out Wilson coming back from a hamstring injury to face Tottenham at St James’ Park on Sunday.

“I wouldn’t have thought he’ll be available,” said Newcastle’s manager, who does hope his French winger Allan Saint-Maximin may be involved following a groin problem. “Burnley [away on Sunday week] looks more realistic for Callum.”

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Many observers felt Bruce’s position had become untenable after the abysmal the abysmal 3-0 defeat at relegation rivals Brighton a fortnight ago but Newcastle’s owner, Mike Ashley, opted to stick with the 60-year-old.

“I never take anything in football for granted and I realise the performance against Brighton was simply not good enough,” said Bruce. “You have to accept people’s opinions and move on.”

A manager set to receive a £4m payoff in the event of dismissal will not resign. “Because we’re in a fight, the easy thing would be to walk away,” he said. “But that’s the one thing I’ve never done, ever. Because we’re in the thick of it, the last thing I’m going to do is walk. I’m determined to see it through. “

Despite 95% of readers recently polled by the Newcastle Evening Chronicle indicating they wanted Bruce sacked he hopes to remain in charge next season. “I really can’t take any notice of polls,” he said, not altogether convincingly. “Everyone’s entitled to their opinions. I can only focus on the next nine games.

“I’m determined to see this testing time through. I hope I’m still manager of Newcastle next year – but that’s for other people to decide.”