Callum Wilson has looked like a 'different animal' at Newcastle United compared to his Bournemouth days.
That is the view of former England and Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland who believes he has proven to be an 'absolute bargain' at £20million.
The England international forward joined the Magpies from the Cherries over the summer and has made an impressive start, scoring six goals in his opening eight Premier League matches.
It led to calls from some sections for Wilson to be recalled to Gareth Southgate's latest Three Lions squad and although he didn't quite earn the call this time around, his form on Tyneside has left Kirkland pleasantly surprised.
“They needed somebody up top," Kirkland told Football Fancast.
"Wilson, he’s surprised me, because I saw him a few times for Bournemouth but he looks like a different animal now. Now he’s there, he looks like a different player. Superb.
“For £20m as well, that’s nothing these days, for a number nine, for a striker, who’s going to score you 10-15 goals. An absolute bargain.”
Wilson was replaced, though, during Friday's 2-0 defeat to Southampton with what looked to be a hamstring concern.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce confirmed Wilson would undergo a scan this week to determine the severity of the damage and former England defender Danny Mills has outlined the importance of the 28-year-old to this Magpies squad.
He told Football Insider: “Wilson would be a huge miss because he has been fantastic this season.
“He has given them energy, enthusiasm and that has transcended to other players in the team. He has brought others on.
“When you see your centre-forward chasing lost causes, making intelligent runs – it is infectious. It is brilliant for the whole team so hopefully the injury is not too bad.
“Newcastle will be OK so long as he does not miss too many games.”
