Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce is turning to Dwight Gayle in a bid to solve their goalscoring crisis.

The 29-year-old spent last season on loan at West Brom and was expected to leave St James' Park on a permanent basis.

But with Andy Carroll now missing because of a groin strain, Bruce is set to put his faith in Gayle, provided he can prove his fitness following a three-month layoff.

"I always believe that, if you're a goalscorer, you're a goalscorer," the head coach said.

"Yes, we know that the Premier League is a step up, but I saw him play twice for West Brom last season and he was electric. He was easily the best striker in the division. I have always liked Dwight and I've tried to sign him three times but never been able to do it.

"When you see him in training he finishes naturally. So, if you do create the opportunities, then I'm sure he will take them.

"But every goalscorer needs a bit of service, and that's the difficult part of the game."