Former Premier League defender compares Newcastle striker with Arsenal great Ian Wright

The ex-pro says you can't fail to have been impressed by the start to life Gayle has made at St James' Park since his £10million switch from Crystal Palace.

And Sinclair, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, paid 13-goal Gayle, who bagged a brace in Sunday's 2-0 win at Leeds United, the compliment of comparing him to ex-England frontman and Arsenal legend Wright.

"He reminds me of Ian Wright," said Sinclair.

"He’s an absolute pest. If you get the ball to him he’ll put the ball in the net.

"He didn’t get the opportunity at Palace but he’s been given the number nine shirt at Newcastle and he’ll continue to score goals for them."

While some may look at Gayle achievements and question whether he can cut it for United in the top flight, Sinclair is in no doubt.

Judging what he has seen so far, Sinclair believes Palace boss Alan Pardew could well have made a big mistake in letting Gayle leave Selhurst Park.

He continued: "Given the opportunity he would have scored goals for Palace this season.

"But if Newcastle continue to play like this, he’ll score goals in the Premier League for them next season as well."