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Newcastle legend says forward can emulate Andy Cole

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Image for Newcastle legend says forward can emulate Andy Cole

Newcastle legend and current U23’s coach Peter Beardsley has tipped struggling striker Dwight Gayle to emulate Magpies forward Andy Cole after describing the duo as ‘very similar’.

Gayle – who was the club’s top scorer as they won promotion last season with 23 goals – was recently dropped to the reserves by Rafael Benitez with the Spaniard preferring both Joselu and Alexander Mitrovic so far this season.

Despite his tough start back in the Premier League however, Beardsley insists Gayle can succeed in England’s top flight.

“Dwight likes a certain type of delivery.” said Beardsley speaking with the Chronicle.

“He’s the type of player I’d loved playing with because he’s always ready. He wants to make his runs and wants the ball.

“That’s what Andy Cole was like, they’re very similar. He will come good again, but he needs to get his sharpness and get back to normal.”

Cole scored an astonishing 41 goals for the Magpies during the 1993/94 season, many of which were created by Beardsley himself, and the former star believes Gayle would thrive with a number ten like himself playing alongside him.

“I wish I’d have been played with Dwight Gayle. He would have scored goals playing with me. I don’t want to sound big-headed but he didn’t really have a number 10 to make him a goal.” he said.

“Obviously I’m 56 now so I know I’m not getting on, but I know what Dwight wants and needs and I could deliver it.”

Gayle could make his return to the first team this weekend when Newcastle welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park.

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