Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce has admitted he would like to keep striker Dwight Gayle at the club.
This weekend has seen the emergence (via the Daily Star) of news that Leeds United are interested in taking former Crystal Palace striker Gayle to Elland Road as they eye a potential replacement for Kemar Roofe.
However, speaking to the Chronicle, Bruce was in no mood to give away that he would be willing to let Gayle leave, insisting quite the opposite with his comments.
“As I keep saying, you’re only as good as your strikers. In that area we need a threat and Gayle has always been part of my plans.
“We hoped he’d be ready after China but he’s gone backwards. It’s a disappointment because I like him. I’ve tried to buy him before but not been able to afford him!” Bruce said.
Gayle has struggled to get to grips with life in the Premier League and spent last season out on loan with West Brom, where he played a key role in firing the Baggies to the play-0ffs as he knocked in over 20 goals during the campaign.
Indeed, while pundits such as Don Goodman have talked about how the former Crystal Palace ace is a ‘guarantee’ of goals in the second tier in the past, the 28-year-old has only ever scored 21 goals in 99 Premier League games (stats via Transfermarkt) and was even included in a list of forwards who failed in the top division after impressing in the Championship by FourFourTwo.
After the Baggies pulled out of a deal for Gayle due to his wages, he has since returned to St James’ Park, though does appear to have the backing of his manager, despite his aforementioned record in the Premier League and it might actually be a good thing.
This is a boost for Gayle personally after West Brom pulled out, leaving his future somewhat uncertain. Indeed, while he may struggle to be first choice following the big-money arrival of Joelinton, the departure of Joselu does only leave Elias Sorensen as a back-up, so there may be opportunities available for the player.
With Bruce’s backing, perhaps he can offer something different if Joelinton needs help up front. WhoScored cite Gayle’s strengths as including a threat on the counter as well as someone who can finish, which could be a natural foil for the Brazilian (who won 2.3 aerial duels per 90 mins last season) if the Magpies are chasing games.
While his record isn’t overly convincing, the idea of the player acting as a supplement could be a promising one due to the lack of bodies.
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