Dwight Gayle has been sidelined since picking up a calf strain during Newcastle’s 2-2 draw against Southampton.
Dwight Gayle could hand Newcastle United a huge injury boost ahead of Monday night’s clash against Burnley by recovering from a calf strain.
The 27-year-old forward has been sidelined since the middle of October after picking up the injury during the Toon’s 2-2 draw with Southampton, which saw him miss the narrow 1-0 win over former side Crystal Palace.
However, Gayle could now return to the fold after taking part in training on Friday, providing manager Rafa Benitez with a huge boost ahead of what is likely to be a difficult trip to Lancashire.
The Evening Chronicle reported that Gayle is set to be available for selection for Monday night’s clash, as long as there are no further setbacks in overcoming the muscle problem.
Scoring 23 goals and firing Newcastle to promotion last season from the Championship, Gayle has been largely used as a substitute this season after Benitez brought Spanish striker Joselu to St. James’ Park from Stoke City in the summer.
Newcastle’s number nine has started just one of the Toon’s nine Premier League outings, and even dropped into midfield against Southampton before picking up the injury.
Now, Gayle could be preferred to Joselu up front as the latter has failed to score in his last two outings against Southampton and Palace, if he can prove to Benitez he is fit enough to start.
Three points for Newcastle at Turf Moor could see the Magpies climb into the Champions League places, if Chelsea, Arsenal and Watford all drop points over the weekend.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
