Newcastle United defender Florian Lejeune has handed the Magpies a hammer blow after confirming that he is set to sit the majority of the season on the sidelines after suffering an injury blow.
The French centre back, who was a summer signing from Eibar last summer, established himself as a regular at the heart of defence in his first season at St James’ Park alongside captain Jamaal Lascelles, but will be missing from action after revealing ligament damage which requires surgery.
Writing on his personal Instagram account, Lejeune gave the full details of the injury and expected recovery, with a significant spell on the sidelines in store.
He said: “During my last training session, I left the field due to an injury. After further medical examination, the doctor told me I have an anterior cruciate ligament injury. I’ll have surgery in the next few days. This injury will certainly keep me away from the pitch during a good part of the season.”