Troubled Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton will be unavailable for the next two months after he sustained damaged knee ligaments in the recent Premier League game at home to Wigan Athletic.

Barton has only just returned to the first team following a series of off-field problems including a prison sentence for his attack on former team-mate Ousmane Dabo.

Following scans, the midfielder said “Obviously, it's disappointing and frustrating, and my sole intention is to knuckle down and bounce back and get fit again to help the Newcastle United cause”.

Although surgery is not expected, Barton will now face another lengthy spell on the sidelines. The former Manchester City player has made just five appearances since his return to the team.