Magpies confirm Best blow

Striker to be sidelined for 'number of weeks'

Last Updated: February 8, 2012 12:46pm

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Leon Best: Sustained knee injury against Aston Villa

Sky Bet

Newcastle have confirmed striker Leon Best is facing several weeks on the sidelines as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.

The 25-year-old Republic of Ireland international damaged his knee in a first-half block tackle with Stephen Warnock during Sunday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Aston Villa.

A club statement said: "Newcastle United can confirm that Leon Best has sustained medial ligament damage to his left knee.

"The striker was forced off in the early stages of Sunday's home victory over Aston Villa having picked up an injury while trying to get a shot away.

"After being assessed by the club's medical staff, Best underwent a scan on Tuesday and will be out for a number of weeks."