Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has hinted that Andy Carroll and Dwight Gayle could get starring roles in the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City.
The duo came on to combine for a second-half opener at St James' Park against Aston Villa as Gayle netted his first United strike in over two years.
Carroll was on hand to grab his fifth assist for the club since returning after a free transfer.
With players looking jaded after the 1-1 draw and Matt Ritchie and Isaac Hayden picking up knocks, Bruce could shake things up a little on Sunday night against City.
Carroll and Gayle will be raring to go and Bruce said: “It’s great to have the two of them available.
“I’ve said all along with Dwight, week after week, that it would be great to have him back fit.
"It’s exactly the same with Andy.
"They’ve both been plagued, but hopefully the three months off has done them the world of good.
"I was delighted with the way they linked up.
"All through his career, we’ve always known Dwight was a goalscorer.
"I’m pleased for him tonight."
Gayle has been a target of West Brom in recent times but Bruce wanted to keep him last summer.
He said: “I’ve said on record that I’ve tried to buy him three times.
"If you’re looking in the Championship, the first one on your list was always Dwight Gayle because of his natural finishing.
"I was disappointed when I came in over in China and he got injured.
"I’ve said all along that I want him to stay fit because as you saw with the way he scored his goal today, he’s got that crucial thing of being able to score.
"He’s got the knack, and when you’ve got that, it’s invaluable.
"Let’s hope he stays fit."
