An early piece of Newcastle United team news has emerged over the availability of first-team stars Callum Wilson and Fabian Schar...

What's the latest?

Shields Gazette reporter Miles Starforth has revealed that both players are in contention to play against Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday after overcoming their respective issues.

He tweeted:

"Fabian Schar and Callum Wilson have recovered from a hamstring problem and illness respectively and will be available for the Southampton game. #nufc."

Speaking on The Footballer’s Football Podcast earlier this week, Wilson claimed that he was not feeling 100% in the build-up to the match:

“I feel a little run down this week, so I need to make sure no illness kicks in fully, clear that out.”

Big boost for Howe

Having both of these players available to face Ralph Hasenhuttl's side at St. Mary's on Sunday is a big boost to Eddie Howe as they are key players for the manager.

They have been two of Newcastle's top performers in the Premier League so far this season and have been crucial to what they have achieved on the pitch, at both ends of the pitch.

At the back, Schar has been a rock for the Magpies and has played a huge role in the club having the best defence in the division after 13 matches - conceding 10 goals.

The Swiss international has started 12 of the 13 games and averaged a terrific SofaScore rating of 7.29, making 2.9 tackles and interceptions per game and winning 64% of his individual duels, which shows that he has dominated opposition attackers.

Only Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes have averaged higher ratings than Schar this season and this proves that he has been one of Howe's best players so far, with the defender consistently delivering quality displays at the back.

Wilson, meanwhile, has been lethal at the top end of the field. The England international has plundered six goals and two assists in nine appearances, averaging a SofaScore rating of 7.12.

He scored eight goals in 18 outings last season and now appears to have found his best form as he is consistently providing goals and assists for the team. The gem has been clinical in front of goal and is bringing his teammates into the game, linking up with the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Miguel Almiron, by producing 1.1 key passes per match.

Therefore, having both players fit and in contention to start is a big boost for Howe as they both have the quality to win matches for Newcastle, whether that is by making a goal-saving interception or by scoring the match-winning goal.