Newcastle United forgotten man stakes Dubai trip claim as Kieran Trippier teases return

Newcastle United forgotten man Dwight Gayle staked a Dubai trip claim as he netted twice in an emphatic victory over United Arab Emirates opposition.

The frontman, who has made just one stoppage time appearance in 2022, led the line for the Magpies against Gulf United on Thursday, in the absence of Chris Wood and Callum Wilson, away with New Zealand and injured respectively.

And the 32-year-old striker, who undoubtedly would have exited the club in January but for Wilson’s long-term calf problem flaring up in late December, reminded Eddie Howe of his ability with a double in the 5-0 win.

Edging his way back to full fitness, Allan Saint-Maximin also netted a double at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex against the local side, who happen to be managed by former United defender Steven Taylor.

Joelinton got the other goal for the Magpies.

The game brings to an end the Magpies' second trip the Middle East in less than two months - having jetted out to Saudi Arabia at the turn of the year.

Howe’s men are set to head back to Tyneside in the next 24 hours.

Trippier hints at NUFC return

Neither Wilson, nor Kieran Trippier were involved in the encounter, however the latter has suggested, to NUFC TV, that fans may not be too far away from seeing him back in black and white.

"The recovery is going really well. The ankle is not as tight now and it has been really good progress while we've been out here.

"I'm looking forward to stepping up the return.

"When you've got the boot on, people think it is worse than it actually is, or on crutches, it looks bad. For me, mentally, it was just about getting out of the boot, at the right time.

"I am just happy to be doing my rehab with the team."

‘I’d like to be on the pitch as soon as possible’

Trippier has been out since suffering a broken metatarsal in his left foot against Aston Villa in January, a game in which he netted his second goal in as many games.

Speculation among injury experts, due to the nature of the problem, suggested we may not see the former Atletico Madrid man for the rest of the top flight campaign - however, that doesn’t seem to be the message from the player himself.

"I know my body, I know how it is reacting. Up to now, everything I have been doing in the rehab room, I have had no reaction - so that is positive news," said the former Atletico Madrid full-back.

"I'd like to be on the pitch as soon as possible. It was a break, we have to take that into account. But I have been speaking to the manager on a daily basis. He has been asking me how I am feeling. And when the time is right, he will be the first to know.

"I need to take my time and be mindful of the injury, but it is positive."