Steve Bruce could be set to hand Dwight Gayle a start against Crystal Palace this week, following the poor goalscoring form of Joelinton, according to Star Sport.
Gayle has been out of action for the Magpies since mid-January, having nursed a hamstring injury, but he could be set to return against his former side this weekend.
Joelinton has only managed to score once in 26 Premier League games this season, and Bruce has seemingly become desperate to find a tonic for the club’s frustrating lack of firepower up front.
That has led the former Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday boss to consider handing Gayle a start against the Eagles, should the 29-year old be able to prove his fitness in time for the clash at Selhurst Park.
Gayle has played just nine times in the Premier League this season, only two of which were as part of the starting lineup, and he has not yet scored in any competitions.
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Bruce’s decision to consider Gayle as an alternative, or attacking foil, to Joelinton makes sense to us given the Brazilian’s lack of goalscoring threat.
Something has to change, not just to resharpen Newcastle’s attack, but also to move Joelinton out of the firing line, with the 22-year old constantly taking the brunt of the criticism.
Yoshinori Muto is also said to be close to returning to match fitness, handing Bruce another option from the bench, but for now, he may need to rely on Gayle, who did score 23 goals in 39 games for West Brom last season.
Gayle’s goalscoring record for Albion was impressive, and but for injuries, he might have had more of an opportunity to impress for the Magpies this season.
As such, he should be handed the opportunity now, particularly with Joelinton struggling, as the club have little other alternatives to the Brazilian.
Hopefully, whether Gayle plays alongside Joelinton or instead of him, the ex-Eagles striker will be able to cause havoc for his former side.
