FORMER Cherry Callum Wilson could be in contention for Newcastle’s trip to Vitality Stadium this weekend, according to boss Eddie Howe.

Wilson came off injured at half-time during Newcastle’s 2-0 defeat away to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League during midweek.

However, the 31-year-old has been included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for qualifiers next week, suggesting he is not far from full fitness.

Newcastle will be heavily impacted by player unavailability tomorrow afternoon, owing to a host of suspensions and injuries.

Midfield duo Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes are banned, the former serving a lengthy-suspension for gambling, the latter missing the one-match for accumulating five yellow cards.

On top of that, Newcastle have nine injury doubts, including Wilson.

That includes defenders Dan Burn, Sven Botman, Javier Manquillo, and Matt Targett, midfielders Elliott Anderson, Jacob Murphy and Harvey Barnes, and striker Alexander Isak.

Discussing the former Cherry striker, Howe started: “He had a tight hamstring.

“We're doing various tests. We're waiting to see and then making a decision on him.

“I don't think there is any fresh issues (since Dortmund).”

Summer signing Harvey Barnes is returning to fitness, but will not be in contention for Saturday’s game.

“He’s just started running,” Howe restarted.

“Fingers crossed he’s on the right path.

“He’s one that wouldn’t be too far away after the international break.”

Centre-back Botman and forward Alexander Isak are closest to returns, but Howe believes Newcastle will have to wait until after the international break to see the pair become available.

He continued: “No massive news on Sven (Botman), he is progressing well, he has been away in the Netherlands getting specialist treatment.

“I think he’s back here today so I will chat with him and see how he is getting on.

“Alex (Isak) is doing well and is working on his fitness levels.

“We are building up his load and the plan is for him to return after the international break.”