Manchester United star Christian Eriksen has been ruled out of action for at least two months due to an ankle injury. The Denmark international was substituted during the Red Devils' FA Cup victory over Reading following a heavy challenge from former Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll.
A club statement confirmed 'investigations are ongoing', but early signs indicate Eriksen will not be available for selection until late March at the earliest. It means the 30-year-old will not be fit to feature in a prospective Carabao Cup final, should Erik ten Hag's progress having sealed a 3-0 win in the first leg of their semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest.
Newcastle hold a one-goal advantage ahead of their own second leg encounter against Southampton at St James' Park on Tuesday night. Joelinton scored the only goal of the game on the south coast, and Eddie Howe's side will advance to the Wembley final on February 26 if they avoid defeat in the reverse fixture.
