The Englishman’s most prolific season in the Premier League came way back in 2013/14, when he racked up seven goals for Crystal Palace.
His best seasons came in Newcastle's 2016/17 campaign and on loan at West Bromwich Albion last season – both in the Championship.
23 goals in each of those campaigns has earned him a reputation of being too good for the Championship but not good enough for the top flight.
And Bruce said, as quoted by Chronicle Live, that he hopes Gayle can rediscover his form, and that he was deterred from bringing in another forward because of the belief he has in the 30-year-old.
“The reason why we didn't sign a striker in January? I felt that those who were available weren't any better than Dwight Gayle”, he said. “I keep saying that I think a lot of him. He's a very good footballer, I hope he stays injury free now.
“I don't know how many times I've said in the last few months. I've gone on record to say I tried to buy him three times.”
Bruce has very few prolific options up top, and none have been anywhere near consistent in front of goal this season.
The biggest disappointment has been the club-record signing of Joelinton. The Brazilian arrived from Hoffenheim for £40m, but he’s only scored three times in 29 games in all competitions this season - two of those coming against lower league opposition in the FA Cup.
Meanwhile, Andy Carroll hasn't scored since his return to Tyneside, and Japanese striker Yoshinori Muto hasn’t found the back of the net in the league either. Newcastle's top scorer this season is central midfielder Jonjo Shelvey.
Source : 90min