Newcastle United could be without striker Callum Wilson for another month, according to The Athletic's Chris Waugh. 

The lowdown

The 29-year-old injured his quad muscle in the 2-2 draw with Southampton prior to the international break and was missing for the 4-1 defeat at Manchester United on Saturday.

The striker has scored twice already this season, finding the net against the Saints and on the opening weekend against West Ham United.

In 2020/21, Wilson led the way for both goals (12) and assists (five) in the Newcastle squad. Last December, Steve Bruce said that the 'wonderful' striker had 'made the difference since he walked through the door' at St James' Park, sentiments which are backed up by the player's goal contribution figures.

The latest

Wilson's 'initial prognosis was believed to be' a six-week lay-off, according to Waugh, and he is only two weeks into that. Therefore, 'there's a chance' that he won't be back in action until after the October international break.

Newcastle host Leeds United on Friday before trips to Watford and Wolverhampton Wanderers, with their next three opponents all 13th or lower as the Magpies seek their first league win of the campaign.

The verdict

It's only three more games without Wilson, but it could mean more pain for Newcastle. Last season, when he suffered the first of two hamstring injuries, the Magpies found themselves on a seven-game winless run.

The nadir came away to Brighton and Hove Albion in March, where a 3-0 defeat left Bruce's side just two points above the bottom three.

Newcastle are already in the relegation zone this time around and it's hard to see them escaping it without their attacking talisman.

In other news, Waugh has revealed the in-house reaction to this Steve Bruce move.