Duff facing lengthy lay-off

NEWCASTLE are keeping their fingers crossed amid fears winger Damien Duff could be sidelined for up to six months.

The 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international underwent surgery on a foot injury late last week and is beginning his rehabilitation.

Duff’s operation is the 13th for the club this season and while the Magpies believe it has been a success and are hoping he could be ready to resume early in the new season, the word from Dublin, where he is recuperating, is not so positive.