Taylor blow for Magpies

Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has been rocked by the news that teenager defender Steven Taylor could be sidelined for another eight weeks with a shoulder injury.

The 19-year-old dislocated his shoulder while on international duty with England U21s last week, and although it went straight back in, a scan has revealed the full extent of the damage.

Taylor has been told by his specialist that the recovery period for such an injury is eight to 10 weeks from the time it happened, and that could mean a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

“It’s a blow to us,” said Souness. “The specialist says he will be out longer than first anticipated, so that’s bad news.

“It’s eight to 10 weeks from when he did it, but I’m confident he may be back before that. He’s a young lad and younger lads are quick healers.

Souness added on the club’s official website, www.nufc.co.uk: “It’s a shame for him as he was in possession of the shirt, but these things happen.

“We have got quality players to come in from the squad when we lose players through injury, and that’s what will happen here.”

Jean-Alain Boumsong missed the 1-0 win over Birmingham with a thigh problem but is expected to be available for the trip to Chelsea on Saturday.