Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle is facing a spell out of the first-team after suffering an injury in his side’s victory over Brentford, reports the Shields Gazette.

The striker, who netted his 20^th goal of the season in the game, limped out of the contest after 28 minutes.

Newcastle went on to win 2-1 at Griffin Park, to go back to the top of the Sky Bet Championship, but the loss of their main striker took away gloss from their win.

The injury is a reoccurring hamstring, Gayle commented: “It was a hamstring. I had it last season as well.

“Fingers crossed its not too bad, but we won’t know the full extent of it for a few days. We’ll see how it goes.”

Gayle has 20 goals in just 22 league appearances this season and is the first Magpies’ player to reach the landmark since Alan Shearer.

The 26-year old was quick to praise his teammates for his scoring record, but also said what a “fantastic achievement” it was for him: “It’s obviously a fantastic achievement for me.

“As I’ve said in many other interviews, it’s a credit to the team and what they’re providing for me as a lot of my goals come from inside the box.”

When asked about becoming the first player to break Shearer’s record, Gayle continued: “He did it every year, to be honest. So, for me, it’s the beginning and I can continue it in future.”

Newcastle leapfrogged Brighton into top spot on Saturday, with their rivals beaten 2-0 by Preston.

Next up for Rafa Benitez’s side is an FA Cup third round replay against Birmingham City on Wednesday night.

Newcastle fans… how much of a blow is it to lose Gayle to injury? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!