More woe for Toon

Newcastle striker Mark Viduka could be out of action for six months if he requires surgery on his injured ankle.

The 32-year-old has flown to his native Australia for a scan on his troublesome Achilles and looks set to face at least six months on the sidelines if he is forced to go under the surgeon's knife.

Newcastle are clearly a club in turmoil after the resignation of Kevin Keegan and the news that owner Mike Ashley wants to sell the club as soon as possible.

The Magpies sit third from bottom at present and punters who fancy them to be relegated this term could make use of a £25 free bet to back the St James' Park outfit to make the drop.

An in-form Viduka would be a massive boost for whoever comes in to replace interim boss Joe Kinnear, who revealed why his player has flown Down Under for the scan.

"There is a chance he may need surgery, if that is the case we will be without him for six months," he said.

"Mark Viduka has had one scan on his injury, but he wanted a second opinion and so too did our medical people. That is why he has gone back to Australia."

Newcastle's next fixture is a home clash with Manchester City on Monday October 20.