Newcastle United duo Callum Wilson and Jamaal Lascelles will step up their injury recoveries this week, according to Chronicle Live journalist Lee Ryder.

The lowdown

Wilson missed Newcastle's final three matches of the season after sustaining an injury in the 4-2 win at Leicester City. The Englishman had opened the scoring for Steve Bruce's side in the first half that night, taking his overall tally for the season to 12.

He finished four clear of January loan signing Joe Willock at the top of the club's scoring charts and also contributed the most assists with five (via BBC Sport).

Meanwhile, club captain Lascelles was absent for the last nine games with a foot injury he picked up in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in April. He started 19 games in total for the Toon last season as they wound up finishing 12th in the Premier League.

The latest

Both Wilson and Lascelles have been active on the training pitches behind the scenes at Darsley Park in the past week and they're expected to take the next step toward match fitness at the club's training camp in York.

"Newcastle United's pre-season preparations have started with a boost," was Ryder's verdict for Chronicle Live in response to the duo's progress.

Most importantly for the Magpies, it's 'hoped' that both players will be ready for the season-opener against West Ham United next month.

The verdict

Newcastle will hope that both players can get 90 friendly minutes under their belt at the very least prior to their meeting with the Hammers to ensure they at least have some rhythm.

Wilson was without doubt the most important player in the side last season. It was in the period following his hamstring injury at the start of February that Newcastle looked most vulnerable, with relegation appearing a very real possibility.

Keep him fit, and they should be able to avoid trouble this time around. Lascelles too will be key, as he's arguably the best central defender on Newcastle's books and his leadership at the back is invaluable.

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