Joe Shaw recently signed a two-year contract with the Falcons

Newcastle Falcons centre Joe Shaw will miss the rest of the current season as he prepares to undergo knee surgery.

The 28-year-old will go under the knife after sustaining the injury in the Guinness Premiership clash against Bristol last month.

Acting director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "It is a blow to lose any player at this stage of the campaign, and Joe is obviously bitterly disappointed.

"He will be back next season, and can now start his rehab with that in mind."

Shaw, who recently signed a two-year contract extension with the Falcons, made 10 first-team appearances this season, scoring one try.

He has also captained the Falcons development team to second place in the Guinness 'A' League where they went all season unbeaten at home.