Speaking to Newcastle’s official media team, Rafa Benitez has confirmed the club are unable to put a timescale on how long Dwight Gayle will be out of action for.

Gayle limped out of Monday’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, with a reoccurrence of a hamstring injury he picked up in last month’s clash with Brentford.

Benitez admitted the Magpies would miss Gayle, who has scored 20-goals this season, but is confident Aleksandar Mitrovic and Daryl Murphy will be able to step in.

Mitrovic has scored four goals in the Sky Bet Championship this season, while Murphy has bagged two, with both in the shadow of Gayle.

Newcastle host Bristol City at St James’ Park this weekend, where they will be looking to maintain their lead at the top of the Championship, ahead of a tough week.

Following this weekend’s fixture, Benitez’s side face away trips to promotion rivals, Brighton, Huddersfield and Reading, all within the space of seven days.

Newcastle fans… Who would you like to see replace Gayle in the starting 11? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!