Howe must finally axe rarely-seen Newcastle flop, he's burning a hole in PIF's pockets - opinion

With things having turned around considerably for Newcastle United in recent weeks, some of the focus from those behind the scenes at the club will surely be focused on enjoying a summer overhaul in the transfer window.

The Magpies embarked on an impressive spending spree in January, bringing in the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier, among others, and there will be a genuine hope among the club’s fan-base that they can take that next step come the summer.

But while new signings will grab all the attention, Eddie Howe will also be keen to streamline his squad, and one player who he must finally permanently offload, is Dwight Gayle.

The striker has been very much a bit-part player for the Tyneside club this season both under Howe and predecessor Steve Bruce, playing just five games of Premier League football and totalling a measly 27 minutes of action.

Despite the lack of game-time, Howe has been quick to praise Gayle for his work off the pitch, and insisted he still has a big part to play in the remainder of this season.

Speaking just last month, the Magpies boss said: “Dwight is another player who has shown a great attitude behind the scenes, with his work. He has a big role to play in the team. He’s a very experienced player.

“You know if Dwight gets one chance, that could be the key moment in our season to keep us in the Premier League. Dwight could be that player who delivers in the crucial moment so he needs to be ready for his chance.”

While Howe does a fine job there of keeping one of his fringe players on side, Gayle certainly isn’t a player who the Magpies should be hanging their hat on as a front-line option going into next season.

The likes of Chris Wood and Callum Wilson are proven Premier League