Rafa Benitez has confirmed Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle is set for another spell out of the first-team, after he suffered more problems with his hamstring, reports the Shields Gazette.

Gayle limped out of last night’s victory over Aston Villa, just after the 30-minute mark.

The clash with Steve Bruce’s side was Gayle’s first start in over a month, following a hamstring injury, which he suffered in the 2-1 victory over Brentford.

A disappointed Benitez told the Shields Gazette: “Dwight was doing well in training.

“He had a baby last week, and some days he was not sleeping. Maybe putting everything together, he wasn’t that comfortable from the start.

“We had to make the substitution. It’s the same problem. He’ll miss some games, but hopefully it’s not too bad.”

Gayle’s injury is bad news for Benitez, with Newcastle facing three of the top six teams from the Sky Bet Championship, over the next fortnight.

The Magpies managed a 2-0 victory last night, thanks to a Yoan Gouffran strike and a Henri Lansbury own-goal, as they returned to the top of the Championship table.

Benitez’s side overtook Brighton and Hove Albion to regain top spot, with Newcastle travelling to the Amex Stadium next Tuesday for a clash with Chris Hughton’s side, a fixture which will go some way in deciding the title race.

Before then Newcastle host struggling Bristol City at St James’ Park, where they will be looking to retain their place at the top of the Championship table.

Newcastle fans… How much of a blow is Gayle’s injury, particularly with the difficult run of games your club is facing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!