Newcastle United full-back Kieran Trippier could be out of action until next season, according to Eddie Howe.
The England international suffered a broken foot during the 1-0 victory against Aston Villa last Sunday, where his free kick ended up being the winning goal.
Since that point, the new signing, who joined the club in January has undergone successful surgery, and he has now begun the rehabilitation process.
"I do not know how long he is going to be out. We hope to have him back before the end of the season, but it is obviously a significant injury, which is a big blow to us because he was performing so well," Howe told the press.
"We are going to have to see how his early rehab goes. Sadly, we are going to miss his leadership skills on the pitch and everything that he was delivering for us."
Newcastle United will be back in action on Saturday when they play West Ham United.
