The 'big thing' about Newcastle United's Chris Wood amid Callum Wilson injury fears

The striker joined the club in January from Burnley in a £25million deal with Callum Wilson sidelined with an Achilles problem. Wilson has had a scan on his hamstring after coming off against Manchester City on Sunday, and Wood could start tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup tie against Tranmere Rovers.

Howe has spoken about the 30-year-old, and his importance to the club, ahead of the second-round tie at Prenton Park.

“Chris has a massive part to play and, when he came on for Callum (against City), I thought he performed very well,” said United’s head coach. “He made a positive impact, linked play very well – and made a couple of lovely passes.

"The big thing with Chris when he comes on is also defending set-plays, recovering into midfield positions to help the team, he has that know-how and experience.”