Andy Carroll has been talking-up his starting chances ahead of Newcastle’s crucial visit to West Brom on Sunday.
Speaking to the official club website, Carroll said: “I’ve been waiting. I could see myself in the starting line-up, but it’s the gaffer’s choice at the end of the day.
“I’ve been working hard, I’ve been fit every day and if it comes I’m hopefully going to take it and get on the scoresheet and give us a win.”
Carroll has played only 12 Premier League minutes since Newcastle went to Aston Villa on 23 January.
The striker has managed just one goal across 18 appearances in all competitions this season (via Transfermarkt).
But with Callum Wilson, Allan-Saint Maximin and Miguel Almiron all missing, Bruce is having to look to his attacking reserves.
If West Brom were to beat Newcastle, the Magpies could end up in the bottom three by the end of the weekend.
It is a vital fixture, and some supporters would prefer to see Dwight Gayle (who also has one goal) starting instead.
Newcastle fans respond to Carroll’s starting XI plea
“He’s not even good in the air anymore. Spends half his time climbing all over the defender or elbowing them in the face. Wins a clean header once in a blue moon, and the rest of the time he just gives free kicks away”
“We are relegated then, if this drunk is playing.”
“I hope he doesn’t even make the squad”
“Gayle has to play”
“Has to play Gayle he always has a point to prove against West Brom.”
“When he signed majority of fans were happy, what’s changed? Against it from the start, waste of a squad place”