Newcastle United have been rocked by an injury to Kieran Trippier - the man many credit for turning around the Magpies' season
United confirmed the 31-year-old had suffered a fractured metatarsal in his left foot have been stamped on during the one-nil win over Aston Villa.
Having scored what turned out to be the only goal of the game, Trippier left the field in the second half and was taken straight to the hospital for an x-ray, later returning to St James' Park on crutches.
The club confirmed on Monday morning that the damage would keep him out for 'upcoming' games.
It is a huge blow to Newcastle given the instant impact Trippier has made at the club - scoring two goals in the last week to provide United with six valuable points, but more than that his leadership and organisation has been a huge plus.
Speaking on The Everything is Black and White Podcast, our NUFC writer Ciaran Kelly shared his verdict on the injury to Trippier.
"It's just a massive blow, it's not just about what Kieran Trippier can do with the ball but what he has brought to the whole club.
"It has felt like he has been there for years let alone six weeks - it's really been a remarkable and immediate impact.
"We all remember people like Papiss Cisse, you can judge him on the goals and it was amazing what he did but with Trippier it's just been so much more.
"He's a leader, an organiser, he's vocal and has raised standards - he commanded so much respect as an England international but a lot of players have looked at him, seen how he handles himself, how he trains and thought 'wow that's what I inspire to be.'
"That is what makes me most concerned -yes he's scored goals and gives so much with his crossing but it's that mentality, that cool head and composure that he brings to the team has been invaluable.
"It's helped them win points.
"But he's just one player, a huge player but they had to adapt when Callum Wilson got an injury and they'll have to adapt again."
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