It's a bad break for Joey

Joey Barton is out for six weeks after breaking his left foot in Newcastle's 1-1 friendly draw at Carlisle.

The £5.8million signing from Manchester City was substituted when manager Sam Allardyce became concerned about what was believed to be a stubbed toe.

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But Barton was in agony when the team returned to Tyneside and will have an operation today.

It follows Michael Owen's thigh strain which has ruled him out for 10 days, the withdrawal of Shay Given and Shola Ameobi from the Carlisle match with minor muscle pulls and the groin strain James Milner suffered in the warm-up. Damien Duff is out until November.

Barton's injury and Kieron Dyer's possible exit will increase the need for at least one new midfielder.

Although Allardyce said Dyer is 'an integral part' of his plans, he also indicated the door is open to a 'very sizeable offer'.