Callum Wilson's injury opens door for William Osula at Newcastle

Osula, signed in the summer for £10 million as Newcastle's most expensive transfer of the window, was initially seen as a player for the future rather than the present.

Since his arrival, the young striker has played just 12 minutes of Premier League football, with manager Eddie Howe cautious about integrating him into the first team.

However, with Wilson's injury leaving Newcastle short of options up front, Howe appears more open to giving Osula more playing time in the coming weeks.

Behind the scenes and in limited appearances, Osula has reportedly impressed, demonstrating glimpses of his potential to the coaching staff.

Howe has emphasised the need for patience with Osula, acknowledging the difficulty of adapting to the demands of Premier League football.

"Obviously Callum's injury is a blow in respect of our strength and depth in that position but I think Alex at the moment, touch wood is fit, looking good, scoring goals and playing well," Howe said on Friday.

"We're doing a lot of work with Will behind the scenes and he's progressing nicely so I'd have no hesitation in playing him as well. So I think we have two - and then a variety of options behind that - which hopefully we won't have to use."

"You don't suddenly land and adjust and become a Premier League striker [but] he is readier than he has ever been and now with Callum out, he has to step up. He is big, quick and strong and there is just that refinement.

"The only thing that can bring that is time."

Although Newcastle fans might hope for a reinforcement in the January transfer window, Howe has played down the likelihood of finding an immediate replacement for Wilson.

This may further pave the way for Osula to seize his chance and prove his worth at the highest level. 

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