Doubts over Callum Wilson's return to fitness and Alexander Isak's injury could see Chris Wood spearhead Newcastle's attack over the festive period, with boss Eddie Howe hailing the Kiwi striker as 'hugely important'

Newcastle could head into the Christmas and New Year fixtures with Chris Wood in attack as doubts remain over the availability of Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak.

Eddie Howe says there is still no return date for £60million striker Isak, who has been absent since September with a thigh injury.

Wilson is back on Tyneside after his participation in the World Cup with England but, unlike Nick Pope and Kieran Tripper, did not feature during Saturday's 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano in Spain.

Howe said: 'We have only seen Callum briefly.