Newcastle United youngster Kell Watts is set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury during the Magpies' pre-season trip to Austria earlier this month. The former Wigan defender has had a successful knee operation and faces an extended period out of action.
Watts, 22, was involved in Eddie Howe 's first-team squad for the summer camp and looked ready to challenge for a spot at the heart of the defence this season. However, taking to Instagram on Monday, the centre-back revealed he is 'absolutely gutted' to have suffered the injury setback.
"Was absolutely gutted to start pre season getting injured out in Austria but operation on my knee went well and back home smiling, ready to take each step on road back to playing!" Watts wrote.
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Watts impressed in League One last season as he helped Wigan Athletic achieve promotion from the third tier. The Latics were linked with taking the central defender on loan again but will now have to rethink their plans.
“I enjoyed my time at Wigan,” Watts admitted earlier this summer. “Winning the league is the best thing you can do in football. Winning trophies is what I want to do.
“Coming back here has been the same as every year. Get my head down, work as hard as I can. Take each as it comes, which I know is a cliché but that’s all I can do. Put my best foot forward, try not to overthink and play my best game.
“I’ve developed as a player from my first loan at 18 to now. I’ve played a lot of games now and that winning mentality at Wigan was brilliant but being back here has been brilliant. I’m enjoying working with the lads, the new staff and learning everyday so I can’t complain.”
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