Toon's injury problems

By Matthew Jones
December 31 2002

Sunday's win was marred when Speed, Kieron Dyer and Nolberto Solano all limped off at half-time. Dyer is waiting to have a scan, while Solano is awaiting the results of his X-rays. Gary Speed is the biggest blow with his replacement Hugo Viana already out.

Newcastle are facing an end-of-year injury crisis in the wake of their 2-1 win over Tottenham.
Sir Bobby Robson's side climbed to fourth in the Premiership courtesy of goals from Gary Speed and Alan Shearer.

But the win was the least on Sir Bobby's mind that day, when Gary Speed, Kieron Dyer and Nolberto Solano all limped off at half-time.

Speed is expected to undergo a hernia operation next week and could be out until the end of February.

Dyer, meanwhile, is struggling with the recurrence of a calf problem and Solano is suffering from concussion.

The trio could all miss the crucial New Year's Day game against Liverpool at St James' Park.

Robson said: "We can't replace Gary Speed. Where do you get an experienced player like him with a left foot and a head? I would think the chances are that we won't see him again until towards the end of February. It's a blow to us and it just shows you how the game turns against you sometimes."

Speed's absence is arguably the biggest blow with midfield rival Hugo Viana already out with injury.

And Robson confessed: "It's going to be a strain on our resources, but last year we beat Tottenham 3-1 at White Hart Lane and our midfield was Jamie McClen, Clarence Acuna and Aaron Hughes."

Dyer, meanwhile, will have a scan on his damaged calf on Monday, while Solano is awaiting the results of X-rays.