Promotion hero Dwight Gayle to leave Newcastle after six years at St. James’ Park

NEWCASTLE: Newcastle United have confirmed experienced goalscorer Dwight Gayle’s summer exit, with Eddie Howe believing fellow hero of 2017, Matt Ritchie, could follow. Former Crystal Palace frontman Gayle, who was Newcastle’s top-scorer as they won the Championship under Rafa Benitez five years ago, has signed a two-year deal with Stoke City. The 32-year-old player, who was a peripheral figure under Howe and Steve Bruce before him, leaves on a free transfer.

A club statement confirming the exit said: “Dwight Gayle has left Newcastle United to join Championship side Stoke City on a permanent deal. “The 32-year-old has linked up with ex-Magpie Michael O’Neill’s men, ending his six-year spell at St. James’ Park.

Former Dagenham and Redbridge and Peterborough United striker Gayle joined United from Crystal Palace in July 2016 and enjoyed a goal-laden first season on Tyneside, netting 23 times in all competitions to finish as the club’s leading goalscorer as Newcastle won the Championship title in 2016/17. “After scoring six times in the Premier League the following campaign, the frontman joined West Bromwich Albion on loan for the 2018/19 season and bagged a further 24 goals in a prolific stint at the Hawthorns before returning to Newcastle. “In all, Gayle made 122 appearances for the Magpies, scoring 34 times, and departs to join a Potters side who finished 14th in the second tier last term.