Smith has not played for Newcastle yet this season

Newcastle midfielder Alan Smith faces up to three months out injured after it was revealed he requires surgery to repair a stress fracture of his foot.

The 27-year-old, who has yet to feature this season, is unlikely to play again this year.

Smith struggled to establish himself in the Newcastle side last season after his �6m move from Manchester United.

But ex-boss Kevin Keegan was a fan and it is thought an attempt to sell Smith was one of the reasons for his exit.

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Midfielder Jonas Gutierrez has a shoulder injury and both Danny Guthrie and Joey Barton are serving bans.