Newcastle United moment of truth arrives ahead of January transfer window decision

As Newcastle United's international stars jet home and attention begins to turn to the return of Premier League football, all eyes will be on Eddie Howe's Friday press conference to discover the injury status of the Magpies' senior stars.

Both Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson have missed recent outings, with the latter's absence stretching all the way back to the final game of last season. The striker has twice appeared ready to return this term but no risks are being taken with one of Newcastle's most injury prone stars.

Howe has recently been confident Wilson would be ready for a return following this particular international break and having the 32-year-old on the pitch would greatly aid Newcastle in their busy pre-Christmas schedule. A decent run in the side would also hugely benefit Wilson - and could, in turn, dictate what the club do in the January transfer window.

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The striker has earned hero status at St James' Park in recent years thanks to both a remarkable goal record and showcasing the ability to shake off seemingly any injury by hitting the ground running in front of goal upon his return to action.

Should the former Bournemouth forward again manage to find his feet at the top end of the pitch between now and January, the need for additional firepower in the winter market suddenly becomes reduced. Howe will know this first-hand after attempting to keep Wilson on Tyneside as clubs eyed up his signature over the summer.

Wilson's repeated setbacks behind the scenes have admittedly dampened expectations of that eventuality and, as such, outside clamour for a fresh face in the attacking department has only grown in recent weeks. Howe, however, appeared unwilling to publicly agree with that way of thinking when pressed over a lack of goals and a potential striker signing earlier in the campaign.

"I think we have to take a long-term strategic view looking at ages and contract lengths, positional need," he told reporters recently. "There'll be no snap decisions based on a couple of games where we haven't scored. Of course if that trend was to continue long term, then we'd look at that."

With Alexander Isak struggling with his own injuries this term and William Osula not deemed ready to start in Premier League clashes, the need for Wilson - or any form of backup striker - is clear. The veteran has been working hard behind the scenes of late, recently showcasing his training in the Middle East with Swedish wonderkid Roony Bardghji.

Hopefully this time around Newcastle fans can look forward to seeing him step out at St James' Park once again.