Magpies may miss Boro opener due to health scare

THE Premier League are closely monitoring the conjunctivitis health scare at Newcastle, which could result in the postponement of their Barclays Premiership opener against Middlesbrough on Saturday.

Five players - Shay Given, Lee Bowyer, Andy O'Brien, Tony Caig and Laurent Robert - are all sidelined, with the latter the latest to withdraw from training yesterday.

The critical situation has resulted in the club's training complex being closed down, with players forced to change in their cars, while fans have been banned from collecting autographs. The Premier League are currently looking into the public health issue and it is understood if there is a high-risk factor then it is almost certain the match at the Riverside will be called off.

Alternatively, if it is deemed a low risk, then Bobby Robson's side will be asked to play the game, or make a special application to the Premier League Board to have the game postponed.

Robson said Irish international Shay Given was one the worst affected. "Shay looks like he's been in a fight with Muhammad Ali," was how the Toon boss described the Donegal man.

A League spokesman said: "We are monitoring the situation and we are liaising with both clubs.

"We are also seeking expert medical advice, although we have no definitive view from them as yet, with regard to the public health connotations of the game, not just for the Newcastle players, but also the Middlesbrough players."

Newcastle officials are worried about losing further key members of their squad in the next few days, believing the virus is particularly contagious.

"We are very concerned our players are having to train together but this is something they will have to continue to do to prepare for Saturday's game," said a United spokesman.

"There is an eight-day incubation period and it is possible more of our players could have the virus without them knowing about it.

"Medical experts have told us in cases like this, 70 to 80% of the workforce are usually affected by the virus and this is worrying."

Meanwhile, Stephen Carr is "very excited" after joining Newcastle last night.

Carr signed a three-year deal after travelling to Tyneside following Spurs willingness to sell the 27-year-old for £2 million. Carr is the club's fourth close-season signing after the captures of Patrick Kluivert, James Milner and Nicky Butt

Despite 11 years at White Hart Lane, the Republic of Ireland international right-back is now looking forward to a change as he told Sky Sports News: "Hopefully, all will go well and it will go through."