Newcastle boss Steve Bruce discusses Dwight Gayle amid striker’s return

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Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce has raved over Dwight Gayle, with the forward now back in the picture for the Magpies.

Gayle was recently sent to undertake warm-weather training, but took up a place on the bench last weekend for the Premier League game with Manchester United.

Gayle will be itching for minutes after his frustrating start to the new season, and will be hoping to build on a goal-filled 2018/19 with Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion.

Bruce clearly rates Gayle very highly, and the manager has again talked up the 29-year-old’s ability.

He told The Chronicle: “I am delighted that he’s around us because he is a very, very good player. And I am delighted he’s here.

“He can knuckle down now and fight for his chance.

“It’s vitally important that he stays fit because he reminds me of why I have tried to buy him that many times. In training, I get those reminders as his finishing is excellent, excellent!”

TBR’s view – Gayle return could improve Joelinton

One man who will be acutely aware just how much Bruce rates Gayle is Joelinton, who has been struggling as the lone striker for Newcastle following his £40 million move from Hoffenheim (BBC Sport).

The Brazilian has scored just one goal so far and is clearly still dealing with the adaptation process, plus a lack of creativity in the time behind him.

He has had some chances to score more goals though, and perhaps the presence of the sharp-shooting Gayle will help him to become more clinical.