Callum Wilson wonders if Premier League break impacted Newcastle United v Bournemouth

Callum Wilson believes last weekend’s Premier League break may have affected Newcastle United’s performance against Bournemouth. English football at all levels was postponed 10 days ago as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Magpies were due to face West Ham United but the game will likely be rearranged after the New Year. The disruption to the top-flight season meant Newcastle – and Bournemouth – were out of action for a fortnight before Saturday’s clash.

Fans watched as Eddie Howe’s men put in their most disappointing performance of the campaign to date. The Cherries took a one-goal lead before a soft VAR decision awarded the Magpies a penalty to save the day.

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Talk to Footballer’s Football Podcast co-host Michail Antonio, Wilson – who missed the game with a hamstring injury – pointed to the break as a possible reason for Newcastle’s performance. He said: “Sometimes those breaks when you’re in good shape can come at the wrong time. I experienced it last season.

“Coming back, playing two games, three games, a few man of the match performances and then all of a sudden it’s off season and I can’t wait to go. It’s come at such a bad time for me .

“I guess for you guys (Antonio and West Ham) this break hasn’t helped you guys. Same for us, our performance was not there. We weren’t as smooth as we used to be.

“I don’t know what it could be due to. Maybe a change in mentality. The training… could it have been more intense? Maybe there wasn’t enough training? It’s about trying to get the perfect balance and the right formula. When you leave from Saturday to Saturday, you know your days off and everything you need to do.

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