Rafa: Gayle unavailable for Brighton fixture

Rafa Benitez has confirmed striker Dwight Gayle will not be available for Newcastle United's game against Brighton Credit: PA Images / Steve Drew

Rafa Benitez feels Newcastle United's fixture against Brighton on Tuesday will come too soon for Dwight Gayle.

The Magpies striker was substituted during their 2-2 draw versus Norwich City after missing six games through a hamstring injury.

Benitez has ruled out his leading goalscorer for their away trip to league leaders Brighton.

Newcastle managed to salvage a point in Benitez's 50th game in charge against Bristol City. Following two defensive errors, the visitors taking the lead in the first half. A revived second half display led to two goals to a draw and a valued learning curve for Benitez's men.

Rafa brushed aside rumours of reports linking him to job offers in China. The former Liverpool manager claims he was unaware of suggestions of him moving to the Far East and reaffirms his ambition to gain promotion with the Tyneside club.