IT’S ALL IN THE MIND, DWIGHT
RAFA BENITEZ has insisted Dwight Gayle can overcome his injury problems with some positive thinking.
The 20-goal striker could be back for Newcastle next week, after stepping up his recovery.
Gayle is not now thought to have suffered a setback during his first start for a month, against Aston Villa on Monday, when he limped off after 30 minutes.
Instead he has been ordered to do more stretching, strength and preventative exercises, ahead of a possible return.
Newcastle face three key away games to Brighton, Huddersfield and Reading, after today’s visit of Bristol City. Gayle is wary of injuring his hamstring again because he has suffered the same problem four times previously. Toon boss Benitez (below) said: “He is doing really well and we are pleased. All the tests are quite positive, it is a question of his confidence more than anything.
“We have been watching the video (of the Villa game) and couldn’t see any situation where he was feeling real pain or having problems.
“It is just a question of confidence, he has to feel he is fine. We just have to treat him and make sure he is comfortable.
“Could he be involved at Brighton? If he feels fine, we will see what he wants to do.” Benitez dismissed reports linking Aleksandar Mitrovic with Paris SaintGermain, adding: “I read news about him all the time, that means someone close to him was interested to do business. But I said he would stay, and his reaction when he was not playing was brilliant. I am happy with these kind of problems.”