Duff facing lengthy spell on sidelines

Newcastle United are refusing to deny reports that Damien Duff will be sidelined for six months following foot surgery.

The Dubliner injured his ankle against Portsmouth last month and, following scans, was advised to sit out the remainder of the season, which concludes this weekend.

Initially the problem was not thought serious but complications were unearthed on further examination.

Reports today suggest he also broke a bone in the sole of his foot and Newcastle have confirmed an operation in England last week.

But the club refused to elaborate on the extent of the winger's condition, with a statement released today merely confirming their player is "now recuperating back in Dublin".

The 28-yerar-old could now miss the first four months of next season's Premiership campaign, one Newcastle will tackle with a new manager following Glenn Roeder's recent departure.

Crucially, though, it means Duff could play no part in the Republic of Ireland's all-important European qualifiers against Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany, Cyprus and Wales later in the year.

Naturally, Duff was not included in Steve Staunton's 23-man squad for the two-match tour to the United States later this month.

He joined Newcastle last summer in a £5 million move from Chelsea but has endured a deeply frustrating season owing to a succession of injuries and being played out of position.

The club statement said: "Damien Duff has undergone a foot operation following the injury sustained during Newcastle United's game at Portsmouth on April 14th.

"The Republic of Ireland international has been sidelined since the game at Fratton Park, but underwent surgery on his injured right foot last Friday.

"The operation was a success, and left-winger Duff is now recuperating back in Dublin."

Last week's procedure was Duff's second operation of the season, having already had surgery to repair damaged knee cartilage.

Newcastle are hopeful Duff will make a quicker than anticipated return. But whether he stays with Newcastle remains to be seen.

He agreed a five year contract last summer but Roy Keane is still said to be interested in luring Duff to newly promoted Sunderland despite Roeder's insistence last month he would not leave.

Duff will also wait to see who Newcastle appoint to succeed Roeder.  Sam Allardyce is expected to be unveiled as manager early next week.