The Newcastle United forward has scored early goals away to both Manchester United and Chelsea in recent weeks.
When it comes to away days at the likes of Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge, visiting teams will have been told to do everything in their power to snatch an early goal, and that is exactly what happened when Newcastle United faced both Manchester United and Chelsea this season.
Dwight Gayle may have struggled for starts earlier in the campaign, but the Newcastle forward did exactly what was asked of him when he kicked off the recent matches against two of the top flight’s heavy weights, putting Newcastle in the lead in both encounters.
Those kind of goals have, in the past, allowed visiting teams to frustrate their opponents and ultimately leave with all three points. However Newcastle could not hold firm in either encounter, losing 4-1 to Jose Mourinho’s side and 3-1 to the reigning champions.
Gayle may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez does not appear to be the biggest fan. Yet what more can the player do than give his side a huge advantage against two of the top three?
It was then up to his Newcastle teammates to perform similar heroics in midfield and defence, but as it transpired his strikes were mere consolations.
Gayle is a fine option for Newcastle and others should be following his example when it comes to making huge contributions at key moments in games.
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