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2017-18 Newcastle United player review: Dwight Gayle

By Carson A Merk

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 23: Dwight Gayle of Newcastle United celebrates after Christian Atsu (Not pictured) scores his sides third goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Newcastle United at London Stadium on December 23, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 23: Dwight Gayle of Newcastle United celebrates after Christian Atsu (Not pictured) scores his sides third goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Newcastle United at London Stadium on December 23, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /
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The second season with Newcastle United was a letdown for the striker.

2016-17 was a stellar debut campaign with Newcastle United for Dwight Gayle. He was the club’s leading scorer and helped them earn promotion. In his second season, the striker faltered in the Premier League.

2017-18 stats: 35 appearances, six goals, three assists

Contract runs until: June 2021

Roy Emanuel

After a strong season helping to lead Newcastle back to the Premier League, Dwight Gayle faced high expectations in the top flight. While there were moments of great promise (like his two goals at Bournemouth), the 28-year-old struggled for consistency throughout 2018-19. He certainly may provide depth moving forward, but it may be wise for the Toon to consider selling him this summer if there is significant interest.

2018-19 outlook: Sell this summer

Durim Halimi

Dwight Gayle was held in high regard at the start of the season due to his strong form in the Championship. However, Gayle was a major disappointment this season after only scoring a total of six goals. Gayle’s inefficiency up top placed more pressure on the defense to maintain results. While Gayle’s efforts are appreciated, it is time for him to go elsewhere.

2018-19 outlook: Sell this summer

Carson A. Merk

What a difference a year (and tier of English soccer) makes. In the Championship season, Dwight Gayle was on fire. He scored in every way possible and was clinical at the final moment. Fast forward to the 2017-18 campaign, he was inaccurate and ineffective. Gayle has solid pace and can test a defense that way, but if you aren’t able to score, it doesn’t do much good that you’re fast.

I would move Gayle this summer. Clubs are interested in him and the money he brings back will be more valuable than the production he provides at the Premier League level.

2018-19 outlook: Sell this summer

Related Story: 2017-18 review: Ciaran Clark

Declan Ryan

Obviously, it has been an extremely disappointing season for Dwight Gayle. Although he notched a team-leading 23 goals in the Championship last season, he has been woeful in front of goal in the Premier League. Benitez has been quick to jump to Gayle’s defense in the media citing his work rate and his ability to get other teammates into play. But, Newcastle’s most obvious issue this season has been scoring goals and Gayle has to take the blame. At 27, there’s not much room for improvement, but if the Magpies are unable to find a willing buyer, then Gayle is a passable option off the bench.

2018-19 outlook: Sell this summer