Newcastle United’s injury problems have worsened, after news emerged that left-back Massadio Haidara will be ruled out for around four months with a knee injury.
Speaking to The Chronicle, boss Steve McClaren described the injury as an “accident” in training earlier this week. The 22-year-old will now require surgery in France and will be out of action until at least March.
Haidara started the season as United’s first-choice left back, but fitness problems and incompetent displays saw him lose his place to Paul Dummett. However, it was expected that the Frenchman would regain his place due to the Dummett’s poor form of late.
The Welshman now remains as Newcastle’s only available natural left back, as Swiss youngster Kevin Mbabu still hasn’t shaken off an injury he picked up away at Manchester City earlier in the season.
Vurnon Anita has some experience as a full back, but his services will be required in central midfield after injuries to Colback and now Cheick Tiote.
Steve McClaren described training this week as “feisty”, amid reports of a training ground bust-up:
It’s been feisty and there has been some anger
But I prefer that, it has been a really good week.
