Newcastle hand iconic number nine to Wilson as Joelinton changes
Newcastle United have handed Callum Wilson the famous number nine shirt after previous occupant Joelinton agreed to the switch.
Wilson will be keen to emulate the likes of Alan Shearer, Andy Cole, and Les Ferdinand who have worn the iconic shirt in the past.
Joelinton will wear number seven next season after it was left vacant by Andy Carroll.
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The Brazilian has struggled since his £40million move from Hoffenheim in 2019, managing only six goals in his 69 Premier League appearances so far.
Wilson on the other hand had a stellar debut campaign for the Magpies.
Joining from Bournemouth last summer for £20m, the 29-year-old hit the ground running with a goal in a 2-0 win over West Ham on the opening day of the 2020/21 season.
Suffering two separate hamstring injuries during the second half of the season, the striker only managed 26 league matches last term but bagged an impressive 12 goals.
Speaking to NUFC TV (via Chronicle Live) on the number change, Wilson said: “They’re both iconic shirts and we’re both going to contribute a lot to the team.
“You’re playing for the badge on the front ultimately but you’re wearing a special number on the back and it’s just about doing it justice, playing well and helping the team.”
Elsewhere at Newcastle, Isaac Hayden will be staying despite interest from Southampton and Watford.
This has been reported by The Athletic who say the Magpies have no intention of listening to offers for Hayden.
The 26-year-old still has five years left on his current contract at St James’ Park and has been a crucial player for Steve Bruce.
Interest in Hayden is thought to be high, with the Daily Mail reporting that the Saints are eyeing up a move for the combative midfielder, alongside The Sun who claim that PL new boys Watford are interested.
The midfielder made 24 Premier League appearances last term, picking up eight yellow cards.
The former England U21 international missed ten matches last season through injury as his side finished 12th in the table.
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