Steve Bruce has revealed that Dwight Gayle has been impressing in training this week and “booming around” ahead of Sunday’s crucial clash with Wolves.
The NUFC boss has also praised his “excellent, excellent” finishing in training, saying the 29-year-old striker has given him ‘another option’ to think about in attack.
Here’s what Bruce has had to say about former West Brom loan star – insisting (once again) that he’s made THREE attempts to sign him before taking the job on Tyneside:
“The thing for Dwight is that whatever number he has on his back he’s got the ability to score goals.
“I am delighted that he’s around us because he is a very, very good player – and I am delighted he’s here.
“He can knuckle down now and fight for his chance.”
“I have tried to sign Dwight three times but could never afford him.”
“It’s vitally important that he stays fit because he reminds me of why I have tried to buy him that many times.
“In training, I get those reminders as his finishing is excellent, excellent!
“I am delighted to have him.
“He’s booming around the training ground and again he gives me another option which is good.”
“He’s very, very good in the dressing room. He is popular and he’s great in training.
“The players like him and that is always a good trait to have.”
With Joelinton and Almiron struggling, ZERO shots on target in our last game and just 5 goals in our 9 league games this season, Bruce looks likely to make changed on Sunday – and sounds like Gayle could get his chance.
Bruce has spoken highly of him ever since he took the job, so now he’s fit and firing in training, it would not surprise me if he’s given the nod to start against Wolves this weekend.
That said, I have my doubts about throwing Gayle in purely on his ability in front of goal. He may be a good finisher, but we’re not creating chances right now – and he’s a player who relies heavily on service.
If the approach doesn’t change and he’s left as isolated as Joelinton has been, I can see him struggling.
With this in mind, it I wouldn’t bet against Bruce starting Carroll alongside Gayle in a bid to give us a totally different dynamic in attack.
