Sky Sports' northeast reporter Keith Downie has shared that Callum Wilson is 'doubtful' for Newcastle United this evening through illness.

The Lowdown: Feeling under the weather

The 30-year-old was substituted at half-time in the St James' Park outfit's 4-1 win at Southampton in the Premier League last weekend.

Eddie Howe confirmed after the match that Wilson was feeling "light-headed" after being unwell during the week, and he consequently did not make the squad for the penalty shootout win at home to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup in midweek.

The Latest: Wilson 'doubtful' for Chelsea clash

Taking to Twitter on Friday, Downie has stated that Wilson is 'doubtful' for Newcastle's game at home to Chelsea this evening as he continues to battle illness, with Howe set to make a 'late call' on the striker.

Downie tweeted: "Callum Wilson doubtful for visit of Chelsea tomorrow. Wilson has been training away from the group following illness. Eddie Howe will make a late call on his World Cup striker."

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The Verdict: Blow for Newcastle

It would certainly be a blow for Howe and Newcastle if Wilson is missing against the Blues through illness.

The Tynesiders have created a healthy gap between themselves and one of their top-four rivals in Chelsea, and they will not want it narrowed ahead of the break for the World Cup in Qatar.

Wilson is Newcastle's second-highest scorer so far this season with six goals (Transfermarkt), and with Alexander Isak out injured as well, the Magpies will fear that they may lack a cutting edge up top.

Also, after being called up to the England squad for the World Cup, Gareth Southgate will be sweating over Wilson's wellbeing, as he will not want the striker to bring a potential bug into the camp with the tournament set to kick off in just over a week's time.