Steve Bruce reveals why he started Callum Wilson for Newcastle United against Arsenal

Wilson, United’s top scorer this season with 10 goals, missed seven matches between February and early April with a hamstring injury sustained in the 3-2 win at home to Southampton.

The 29-year-old has appeared from off the bench in the previous three games – seeing a late goal ruled out at Liverpool by VAR last weekend.

Wilson returned to the starting XI for the visit of Mikel Arteta’s Gunners to partner Allan Saint-Maximin in attack.

Speaking to Sky Sports before the game, Bruce said: "He’s been desperate for weeks.

"Just last week when he burst through against Liverpool, it reminded me that he’s ready.

"When you injure a hamstring and you’re all about pace and power, you have to box a bit cleverly and that goes for Allan (Saint-Maximin) too.

"I believe he’s ready – he certainly looks like it.”

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