Davide Santon hoping to avoid operation

Newcastle United full-back Davide Santon will have fluid drained from his knee in an attempt to avoid surgery.

The injury has restricted the 20-year-old defender from his making his Magpies debut, having joined from Inter Milan last month.

"He has gone to London and will have his knee drained of a little bit of fluid," confirmed manager Alan Pardew.

"We are hoping he will train. If that doesn't work we will have to look at some keyhole surgery at some stage."

The Italian was an unused substitute during last Monday's 0-0 draw at Queens Park Rangers.