Newcastle United suffer pre-season injury blow as Dwight Gayle limps out of Crewe opener

United saw off Crewe Alexandra in York thanks to goals from Andy Carroll, Christian Atsu and Federico Fernandez – but the run out came at a cost as Gayle, the Magpies’ top scoring forward last season, was forced off on the hour.

The extent of the injury is not yet known.

Gayle is set to play a major role for United this season, according to Bruce.

On last season’s four-goal striker’s role and strengthening up top, the manager said: “I was really impressed with Dwight at the end of the season, the way he finished. He had four in seven games when he was getting a bit fit. He’s come back and burst on to the scene. He’s looking in tip-top shape. He had two bad injuries last year.”

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