Newcastle United striker Dwight Gayle is at a “crossroads” in his career, according to Chronicle journalist Andrew Musgrove.
The £40,000-a-week hitman [Spotrac] has yet to feature for the Toon Army so far this season, but is expected to feature at some stage after staying on Tyneside this summer, having spent last term on loan in the Championship with West Brom.
Writing in a piece for the Chronicle, he said: “Gayle finds himself at crossroads.
“At 28, on big wages and with two-years still on his deal, there are some big decisions to make.”
OPINION
You can’t help feeling that this year is going to be make or break for Gayle. The 28-year-old was deemed surplus to requirements by Rafa Benitez last term, but now, with Steve Bruce at the helm, there is nothing stopping him from kicking on and reclaiming his spot in the Toon Army’s starting lineup. Gayle was inspired at times last season for West Brom, registering 24 goals in the Championship and at a rate of 2.4 shots and 0.8 key passes per game, as per Whoscored. If he can get anywhere near that kind of form for the Magpies this term, then he would no doubt be a valuable asset for Bruce’s boys. Joelinton looks handy, but he is still inexperienced, and could do with a foil to run in behind and maximise his natural physicality. On paper, Gayle could fill that role perfectly. Whether he can actually produce on the pitch is a different matter though. If he doesn’t you have to fear for his future at St. James’ Park beyond next summer.
