This Newcastle United forward seems to be the odd man out

Callum Wilson has been as good as advertised this season for Newcastle United. His performance has allowed Steve Bruce to pencil him in every match when he’s fit as the starter up top. But, the battle between the three players below him on the depth chart could result in one’s departure this summer.

When Wilson had to sub off due to an injury vs. Southampton, Bruce turned to Joelinton to replace him. The Brazilian has received consistent chances on the pitch, whether that’s as the lone forward or playing next to another striker. Across all competitions, the record-signing has 23 appearances with three goals and three assists.

If it’s not Joelinton playing next to Wilson, it’s typically been Andy Carroll. The physical forward has 18 appearances and one goal. His skill set is valuable late in matches when the club is looking for him to get on the end of deliveries into the area or win the ball in the attacking half and hold up play.

That leaves the striker with the least appearances this season by a comfortable margin: Dwight Gayle. After dealing with an injury early in the season, Gayle has only appeared in ten matches and has one goal. He has zero starts in the Premier League this season.

Seemingly fourth on the pecking order at striker, Gayle doesn’t seem to be likely to get a new deal as his current one expires this summer, especially with a potential return of Yoshinori Muto to the group. A scoring star in the second division, Gayle would be a hot commodity for Championship clubs looking for an offensive punch going into next season. Unfortunately, his future does not look bright on Tyneside.