Dwight Gayle claims starting berth was never in doubt after Newcastle striker scores twice against Leeds just days after having four teeth knocked out in a savage attack
DWIGHT GAYLE insisted there was never any doubt he would play in the Newcastle win over Leeds on Sunday – despite having FOUR teeth smashed out in a savage nightclub attack that left him unconcious.
The striker got his gnashers into Garry Monk’s side with goals either side of half time to earn his side another three points as they chase a return to the Premier League under Rafa Benitez.
But his sweet strikes and mile-wide smile were a surprise as the ex-Crystal Palace ace reportedly needed emergency dental work after getting chinned at 4am last Sunday morning.
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The striker – who has now scored 13 goals in as many games this season – was out on the town celebrating the birthday of team-mate Jamaal Lacelles before allegedly getting mouthy with a heavy handed rival.
But he showed off his perfect brace at Elland Road with no signs of any of the battle scars from the 4am scrap that left the goal machine spark-out.
Gayle - who grabbed goals after a Rob Green howler and a perfect Vurnon Anita assist – said: “You have to follow everything in and, luckily for me, he has dropped it and I was there to tap it in for the team.
“The second one came from a great ball from Vurnon and great play from our team.
"They are just setting me up all the time so I cannot help but score at the moment. I am just happy it went in and for the win today.”
When asked if his place in the side was in danger due to the assault, he said: “There was never any doubt. I was fine”