This article is part of Football FanCast's Off the Bench series, which places in-game managerial decisions and squad selections under FFC's microscope.

Newcastle overcame the odds to draw with Manchester City but if they had more firepower on the bench they may not have needed a fine Jonjo Shelvey strike to save them late on.

Off the bench

The Magpies were outplayed for much of the match as the visitors enjoyed 24 shots and 76% possession, and with Newcastle on the back foot in the second half Steve Bruce did what he could to try and mix things up.

Unfortunately for him, there is a certain lack of quality among the substitutes, and although Christian Atsu was able to contribute an assist after coming on, the impact of Dwight Gayle - or lack thereof - left a lot to be desired.

Only two forwards in the Newcastle squad have scored this season, and it is not surprising when one takes into account Gayle's cameo appearances in recent matches.

He followed up his four touches against Aston Villa with just seven against the Citizens, completing only four passes which meant he was never likely to cause the opposition problems, despite having more than 20 minutes in each match to have some kind of effect.

Future in doubt?

It is clear from Bruce's decision-making that Gayle isn't fancied much nor suited to Newcastle's style of play.

Joelinton has started every league game and is given the task of holding the ball up to allow a counter-attack to take effect, as the Magpies often sit deep in matches and sacrifice the ball, averaging 38% possession in the league.

Andy Carroll fulfils a similar role when he is brought on, and he is a clear target for teammates to aim for in the air in a manner that Gayle simply can't replicate.

The 29-year-old lacks the physical edge needed to lead this Newcastle attack and that means he is never likely to score goals or act as an important member of the team under Bruce.

The Magpies boss has spoken previously of his fondness for the striker and the fact he targeted the player at previous clubs he managed, but there is doubt over Gayle's ability to perform in the top division, with 21 goals scored in 103 Premier League games.

If the former Crystal Palace man fails to impact off the bench in games from now until January it could be wise to let him go.

His cause isn't helped by the fact Newcastle could be willing to listen to offers for his services either.

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