Wilson’s call up deserved after sparking Bournemouth to strong start

When Gareth Southgate announced his squad for the upcoming English friendlies against the United States and Croatia, there was a surprising name getting his first national team call-up: Callum Wilson. Wilson, the 26 year old Bournemouth striker, has helped the club off to a strong start this season, with the Cherries currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table with 20 points. Wilson, in particular has been one of the catalysts behind the early success, putting away six goals in eleven league appearances this season (along with four assists) and sparking rumours of a possible move to Chelsea. He has had quite a few things go his way this season that has contributed to his productive start.

The most important benefit that Wilson has been able to have this season so far has been health. The young forward has had an unfortunate relationship with his knee cartilages ever since he made his debut in the Premier League for Bournemouth in 2015, when he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee, just five goals into the season. It took a good bit of time for Wilson to regain his form, considering he’s a player who is so reliant on pace to put defenses on their back foot, but positive momentum was starting to show during the 2016-2017 campaign. That momentum screeched to a halt when Wilson tore his ACL again, this time in his left knee. With his knees and confidence in tatters, it took a while for Wilson to mentally re-engage. It seems those injury woes are far behind him, as Wilson has started every match this season for the Cherries, performing as well as any player in the Premier League this season.

Renewed health is not the only thing that has revived Wilson this season, as his chemistry with teammates, Ryan Fraser and Junior Stanislas have flourished. Fraser and Wilson have seemed to have a telepathic link on the pitch this season, allowing Fraser to blossom. Fraser currently leads the league in assists with four (to go along with three goals). While his play has cooled since his hot start, Fraser’s harmonious on field relationship with Wilson looks to be paying dividends for both players.

Another player who has developed an impressive partnership with Wilson has been winger Junior Stanislas. Stanislas, coming back from a knee injury of his own, has been effective at putting pressure of opposing defenders with his pace and his ability as a play-maker has opened up opportunities for Wilson to take advantage.  With the likes of Stanislas, Fraser and Welshman David Brooks maintaining their impressive form so far this season, it should allow Wilson to continue to shine.

Callum Wilson has been a star so far this season and with his first call-up to the England National team, he should be of great use for Gareth Southgate.  

As Jamie Vardy has recently retired from international duty, Wilson should hopefully be able to provide some much needed depth at forward behind Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane and could serve as a super substitute in the late minutes of a match for the Three Lions. Hopefully, this will be the first of many call-ups for Wilson, as he continues to maintain his terrific form.