Eddie Howe: Callum Wilson better than anyone Newcastle could have signed

Despite Newcastle making no additions to their squad last month, Howe believes Wilson still has a key role to play in the team's future.

Wilson, however, has endured a difficult season so far, struggling with injuries that have severely limited his playing time.

A back injury in the summer kept him out for the early part of the campaign, and just as he was nearing a return, a hamstring setback in December further delayed his comeback.

As a result, the 31-year-old has yet to start a Premier League game this season, making only four substitute appearances in the league.

His long-awaited return came in Newcastle's midweek Carabao Cup victory over Arsenal, where he made a brief cameo. He is also set to feature in the upcoming FA Cup clash against Birmingham City as he looks to regain match fitness.

"Without a doubt for me. If he can stay fit he's an outstanding centre forward. He's got the experience that we would need in that position, the know how of how we play, the pace, the strength, goalscorer, so yeah, we wouldn't have been able to recruit anyone close to his level I don't believe in this window who would have been ready to play," said Howe.

"The key thing is trying to keep his fit. That's what Callum wants, that's what we want and fingers crossed we can male it happen."