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Lee Ryder

Callum Wilson discusses life at Newcastle United's under-construction training ground

Callum Wilson says that Newcastle United players aren't complaining about life at Newcastle United's Benton training ground at the moment - despite rubbing shoulders with construction workers every morning.

However, Wilson knows that once the upgrades at the club's North Tyneside HQ are completed the Magpies can only benefit from their new environment. New features on the site will include hydrotherapy and plunge pools, improved changing rooms, new doctor and physio rooms, a modern players' lounge and an extended dining area.

United held their pre-season on location in Portugal and Austria, and Wilson has now reflected on day to day life at Benton.

READ MORE: Brendan Rodgers drops fresh hint to Newcastle United on James Maddison

The number 9 said: "It's still a work in progress, still a bit of a building site at the moment but it's all for a good cause. When we get to the point where it is ready then I'm sure that we'll reap the rewards as players."

Regardless of training facilities, Wilson has started the season in style with a strike in the 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest. His career tally is now at 113 goals since his professional career began in 2009 with Coventry City.

Wilson is also now just one goal behind Alan Shearer at Newcastle for goals on the opening day of the season after scoring for third time in a curtain raiser.

Wilson said: "It was lovely, I was very aware of the fact, I've scored or got an assist on the opening day for the last five, six years so it's something I enjoy.

"I get excited for every new season, you work hard during pre-season but the hard work comes into business time when the season starts and that transition is always nice especially when you're playing at home.

"I was disappointed only to get one to be honest. I knew I was going to have to flick it because I'd gone past the near post but that was the only way I would have got to the ball.

"The first half, the defender kept clearing it when it went into that area so for me it was important to try and dislodge that in the second and it just seemed to bobble up for me at the right time.

"Once I hit it, I turn and can see it heading for the side of the net and I just wheel away and that's when the celebrations started."

But it's all thoughts on Brighton this weekend and Wilson was keen to stay level headed about what has unfolded so far in the 2022/23 campaign.

He said: "The means nothing if we don't go and build on it at Brighton. "It's only one game, we've got 37 to go and we've made a nice start but we need to make sure we're consistent with our performances and our results."

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