Steve Bruce has theory about Dwight Gayle at Newcastle United

The striker, sidelined since the middle of last month with a hamstring problem, is set to make a timely return against Crystal Palace, his former club, tomorrow with Joeltinon struggling with a thigh injury.

Gayle’s campaign, up to now, has been disrupted by injury, and Bruce is convinced that the 29-year-old – who spent last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion – can score goals at Premier League level.

Bruce pointed to the impact Leicester City and England striker Vardy – who, like Gayle, came from non-league football – has made in the division.

Asked if Gayle – who scored six top-flight goals the season before last – could deliver for him at Premier League level, Bruce said: “Has he played a lot week in week out in the Premier League? I don't think so.

“I think he's always been in and around the Championship when I've seen him. A lot of people said Vardy couldn't do it, this one couldn't do it.

“Dwight’s a natural goalscorer. His instincts, his movement, all of it’s a natural goalscorer's. Left foot or right foot. Natural finisher.”

Gayle missed the start of the season with a calf injury and suffered a hamstring problem against Wolverhampton Wanderers last month.

“When I walked through the door, I was delighted he was here,” said Bruce. “We’ve only seen glimpses. We haven’t seen him enough. He’s a natural goalscorer, without question.”

Bruce, however, has conceded that Joelinton, signed for £40million last summer, “might not be a natural goalscorer”.

United’s head coach said: “He’s 23 – can he improve to be that?

“We were hoping to could get 10-12 goals this season. It’s very difficult for anyone in the Premier League to hit the 20 mark. I think it’s been a big learning curve for him.

“He has to be a bit more selfish, which he isn’t in his personality. He’s not selfish at all, he’s a team player. He’ll be judged on goals. He’s Newcastle’s No.9 with a big transfer fee – he has to live with that expectation.”