Newcastle striker Callum Wilson has confessed his surprise and disappointment that the Magpies couldn’t secure the loan signing of Ross Barkley, with Wilson unaware of his impending move to Aston Villa.
The former Everton midfielder joined the Villans from Chelsea on a season-long loan deal in September and was seen as a left-field signing from the Midlands club. Barkley was seemingly a part of former Blues manager Frank Lampard’s plans before the switch, but a move was swiftly sanctioned when Dean Smith exhibited an interest.
Wilson, speaking to the Super 6 Podcast, revealed that his experience working with the playmaker at England rendered him as a huge admirer of his talents. Had he been aware that Barkley were available, he would have implored Steve Bruce to try to sign the 27-year-old, admitting:
I was surprised [Chelsea let him go]. What I would say is that he’s at Villa now, but training with him he’s unreal!
For me as a striker he’d be a great person to play with, he’d help me score goals.
I didn’t realise he would’ve gone on loan from Chelsea otherwise I’d have said to the manager you’ve got to bring him up here, he’s unbelievable!
Read Newcastle Verdict
With three goals and an assist for Villa, Barkley has put in some worthy match-winning performances for his current club. However, the arrival of Joe Willock on loan from Newcastle has to be lauded as a commendable alternative from the Magpies.
In that view, and with a crucial goal to this name already, Willock has filled the playmaking void, so Wilson need not be overly disappointed that he doesn’t have Barkley providing him with service at St James’ Park.
